West Asia crisis: Flight ticket prices may rise as tensions soar between Iran and Israel

As tensions grow in Middle East after Iran fired missiles into Israel on April 13, flight prices from India to Europe and other Western countries may go up because airlines will change their routes.

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Indian airlines Air India and Vistara said they won’t fly over Iran to get to Europe and other destinations in the West because of the tensions. Instead, they’ll take longer routes to avoid the fighting.

“Due to the current situation affecting parts of the Middle East, we are making changes to flight paths of some of our flights. Contingency routes, which are kept available to ensure operational continuity during such eventualities, are being used instead,” Vistara spokesperson told Moneycontrol.

“We will be taking longer routes as a precautionary measure, resulting in increased travel time to reach destinations. This may result in longer flight times on certain routes and associated delays. The situation is being monitored closely and further changes will be made if required,” the spokesperson added.

The decision by airlines to opt for longer routes could result in higher airfares for Indian consumers. An Air India spokesperson informed Moneycontrol that they are closely monitoring the situation in the Middle East. Currently, the airline is adjusting its flight paths to prioritize the safety of passengers and crew.

Also read | West Asia crisis: US won’t be part of Israeli counter-strike on Iran, Joe Biden tells Netanyahu

On April 12, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a travel advisory for Iran and Israel, advising Indians to refrain from travelling to these countries until further notice.

In response to escalating tensions in the Middle East, airlines worldwide have implemented precautionary measures to ensure the safety of their passengers and crew. Iran stated that its attack was in retaliation to alleged Israeli airstrikes on Iran’s embassy in Damascus on April 1.

Iran attacks Israel 

Iran fired drones and missiles at Israel after vowing revenge for an attack on its consulate in Damascus. Israel hasn’t admitted to the consulate strike, but many believe it was responsible.

This is the first time Iran has directly attacked Israel. Before this, Israel and Iran had been quietly attacking each other’s assets without admitting it.

Also watch | Iran attacks Israel: Iran says, ‘attack a retaliation of Israel’s repeated crimes’

(With inputs from agencies)