Caution prevails as carriers delay full return to West Asia skies

DOMESTIC AIRLINES ARE in no hurry to fully resume operations over West Asia airspace, adopting a cautious, wait-and-watch approach despite early signs of easing geopolitical tensions.

- NITIN KUMAR

Executives across carriers said flight paths through sensitive corridors near Iran will remain restricted until there is clear and sustained evidence of stability, highlighting concerns that the situation could deteriorate quickly.

"Resuming in a rush does not make sense at this point," a senior airline official said. "The situation remains fluid, and the risks of sudden escalation cannot be ruled out."

The war involving the US, Israel and Iran triggered widespread airspace closures from February 28, disrupting international flight networks and forcing airlines to reroute or suspend services.