Air India has cancelled at least three flights to the United States and warned passengers to expect delays on some European routes. The reason is the sudden closure of Iranian airspace.

According to some reports, two flights from Delhi to New York and Newark were cancelled. Another flight from Mumbai to New York was also called off.

These were not small schedule tweaks. They were full cancellations.

Why Iran’s Airspace Matters for Long Flights

Air India normally flies over Iran on many routes to the US and Europe. It is one of the most direct corridors for long westbound flights.

With that airspace now closed, aircraft have to take a longer path. In many cases, the alternative route is over Iraq. That change adds distance and flying time. For some US routes, it also creates a fuel problem.

Longer Routes Mean Real Limits

Here’s what most travellers do not see.

Longer routes mean higher fuel burn. On certain US flights, the aircraft simply cannot carry enough fuel to safely complete the journey on the new path. When that happens, the airline has no choice but to cancel the service.

Air India confirmed that flights overflying the region are now using alternate routings. The airline also said some services cannot be rerouted at all and are therefore being cancelled.

<a href="

Due to the emerging situation in Iran, the subsequent closure of its airspace, and in view of the safety of our passengers, Air India flights overflying the region are now using an alternative routing, which may lead to delays. Some Air India flights where…

— Air India (@airindia) <a href=" 15, 2026

Europe Flights Likely to Be Delayed

Flights to Europe are not immune.

While many European routes can still operate using alternate paths, passengers should expect longer flight times and delays. Crews, fuel planning, and landing slots all get affected when routes suddenly change.

Air India has said these adjustments are being made purely for passenger safety.

Pakistan Airspace Is Already Closed

This disruption comes on top of an existing problem.

With Pakistan airspace already closed, Air India has been flying longer routes for weeks on many westbound services. The Iran closure removes another key option, leaving very few workable paths for long-haul flights.

What’s Happening Between Iran and the US

Tensions between the United States and Iran have been rising. There are growing fears that the situation could worsen, which is why airspace restrictions are being taken seriously by airlines worldwide.

When geopolitics heats up, aviation is often one of the first sectors to feel the impact.

What Passengers Should Do Now

If you are flying Air India to the United States or Europe in the coming days:

• Check your flight status frequently
• Watch for emails or SMS updates from the airline
• Be prepared for delays or last-minute changes
• If cancelled, rebooking options or refunds usually apply

Flexibility helps right now.

Iran Airspace Closure Explained

Iran has temporarily closed its airspace due to rising security concerns linked to regional tensions. Airlines are avoiding the area as a safety precaution. This forces longer routes, higher fuel use, and in some cases, flight cancellations. For long-haul travel, the impact can be immediate and significant.

For travellers, this is a reminder that global events can change flight plans fast, even when everything looked normal just a day earlier.

The post Air India Cancels US Flights, Europe Routes Delayed After Iran Airspace Closure appeared first on .