PTC Web Desk:  The ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran has significantly impacted India's aviation sector, with nearly 26,000 flights operated by Indian airlines affected until July 20, the Centre informed Parliament on Thursday.

The government said the crisis has resulted in flight cancellations, delays, diversions and longer travel times, increasing operational costs and causing major revenue losses for airlines.

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Airspace restrictions trigger widespread disruptions

Replying to a question in the Lok Sabha, Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol said that restrictions on airspace in the conflict-hit region forced airlines to reroute flights, leading to widespread disruption across airports and airline operations.

However, the government did not provide a detailed airline-wise or airport-wise breakdown of the affected flights.

DGCA issued safety advisories

The minister said the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued several safety advisories to airlines during the crisis.

These included operational guidance on restricted airspace, Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs), identification of high-risk zones, Flight Information Region (FIR) boundaries and affected countries to help airlines plan safe routes after conducting safety risk assessments.

Airlines facing higher costs

The government acknowledged that rerouting flights has increased flying time and fuel consumption, resulting in higher operating expenses for airlines.

It also admitted that Indian carriers are suffering significant revenue losses because of the geopolitical situation. However, it did not disclose the total financial impact, stating that losses differ depending on route changes, flight duration and fuel prices.

Measures taken to support aviation sector

• To reduce the financial burden on airlines, the Centre said it introduced several relief measures, including:
• One-time budgetary support of up to Rs 10,000 crore for oil marketing companies to help stabilise Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices.
• Temporary cap on domestic ATF price hikes.
• Deferment and rebates on airport landing and parking charges.
• Support under the Rs 18,100-crore Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) 5.0, including Rs 5,000 crore earmarked for airlines.
• Temporary reduction in VAT on ATF in Delhi and Maharashtra.

The government also said it set up a 24x7 Passenger Assistance Control Room to coordinate with airlines and airports during the disruption.

Passengers were provided assistance with refunds and flight rescheduling, while airport help desks were strengthened. The Ministry of External Affairs also worked to support Indian nationals stranded or travelling through West Asia.

While sharing the overall impact, the government did not provide the detailed airline-wise disruption and financial loss figures that were sought in Parliament.

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- With inputs from agencies

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