An IndiGo flight flying from Delhi to Manchester was obliged by the crew to make an unplanned return approximately seven hours after it departed from Delhi on Monday morning.
The flight landed back at its point of departure shortly before afternoon and thus the passengers took a long round trip instead of making an international journey.
Restrictions to Airspace Caused Diversion
The airline announced that the timetable for the flight had changed because of last minute restrictions on airspace due to the future of West Asia. IndiGo stated that the change was made to ensure the safety of the passengers and the crew following the tensions in the region which have resulted in a change to the airspace used by flights that are travelling to and from the region.
Initially, the flight was planned on a long diversion via Africa in order to avoid areas of conflict in the Middle East, but new restrictions on airspace were introduced, preventing the flight from flying via Eritrea and instead required the aircraft to be returned to Delhi.
U-Turn Near Ethiopia–Eritrea Border
According to flight-tracking information, an Air India 787 aircraft made a 180-degree turn as it entered the airspace of Africa, just off the border of Ethiopia and Eritrea. After flying for about 15 minutes into African airspace, it made a sharp 180-degree turn (U-turn) back to India.
The Boeing 787 operated on the route from Delhi to Manchester is leased, operated in a lease-fee arrangement with Norse Atlantic, and forms part of IndiGo’s long-haul growth initiative to Europe.
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A Wider Impact on Global Aviation
With the recent uptick in geopolitical tensions affecting international airline routes, the impact on airlines due to the airspace closure in W. Asia has caused airlines to alter routes on longer flights, divert them or even cancel them altogether.
IndiGo confirmed that they are currently working with aviation authorities and other relevant organisations regarding the safe reconstruction of the journey to Manchester, while reaffirming to customers and staff their highest priority (for safety) is maintaining the safety of their passengers and crew and aircraft.
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Next Steps/Passenger Support
IndiGo provided support for affected passengers once the return was not expected. Providing food and drink, accommodation as needed, and options to rebook or refund were all part of the passenger support provided to those affected by the return flight not being expected. Officials have stated that once an alternative safe/viable route is available for the flight to Manchester, they will reschedule it (the flight).
This situation demonstrates that worldwide aviation continues to be subject to volatile and sudden changes in the geopolitical environment and closure of airspace. As airline companies continue to adjust their flight paths to accommodate the many changes that take place within their respective regions, airlines will be forced more frequently than ever before to make precautionary decisions midflights. This situation also shows the unpredictable nature of long-haul travel, especially when regional political instability exists.
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