Dubai airport shuts; A’bad-Middle East flights hit

SLUG: Iran airspace closureAhmedabad: Operations at Dubai airport were disrupted on Saturday after temporary closures and restrictions across multiple international airspaces in West Asia, affecting around eight to 10 Middle East-bound flights from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International (SVPI) Airport. The airport also set up a help desk for passengers at Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 to assist them with flight status, updates, and further bookings. SVPI operates an estimated 40 flights every week to Gulf countries, many of which connect passengers to destinations in Europe, Canada, and the US. Airport authorities in Ahmedabad issued a passenger advisory stating: "Due to temporary closures and restrictions affecting multiple international airspaces, certain international flights may experience delays, rerouting, or cancellations. Passengers are advised to check the latest flight status with their respective airlines before travelling to the airport and plan their journey accordingly." Airspace was closed over Iran, Iraq, Bahrain, Qatar, Jordan, Kuwait, and the UAE following the escalation in the Iran-Israel conflict and reports of attacks in Tehran, according to sources. A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) was issued regarding the closure. Airlines operating services between Ahmedabad and destinations such as Dubai, Doha, and other Gulf cities were assessing schedules, with some flights delayed, rerouted, or placed on hold pending further updates on the airspace situation. Further advisories are expected depending on developments in the region. Airport sources told TOI that passengers need to take cognisance of changing flight schedules.