International operations of Indian airlines were thrown into disarray on Friday after Iran, Iraq, Jordan, and Israel closed their airspace on Friday, dealing a severe blow to carriers already grappling with Pakistan’s ongoing airspace ban following India’s Operation Sindoor last month.
These restrictions have narrowed westbound corridors drastically, forcing significant detours, delays, cancellations, and flight recalls, particularly affecting routes to Europe and North America.
The Iranian closure came in response to Israel’s large-scale military offensive — Operation Rising Lion — targeting nuclear and defense installations across Iran. Iran sealed its airspace, citing security concerns. Iraq, Jordan, and Israel followed suit,

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