Navigating Turbulence: Asian Airlines Adjust Routes Amid India-Pakistan Tensions
- circular connection
- May 9
- 2 min read
As tensions escalate between India and Pakistan, several Asian airlines have confirmed flight suspensions, rerouting, and delays to avoid potentially dangerous airspace. These measures, while necessary for passenger safety, also come with added implications—both for airlines and travellers.
Image: Unsplash/Artturi Jalli
Airlines Implementing Flight Cancellations and Route Adjustments:
Many have stopped using Pakistani airspace and adjusted routes to fly further south or make additional stops.
Rationale Behind Route Changes and Cancellations:
This shift is not just about detours. Longer flight paths mean increased fuel consumption, higher operating costs, and more complex scheduling, especially for long-haul routes to and from Europe and the Middle East. Some flights have required additional layovers or refueling stops, such as EVA Air’s unplanned stop in Vienna and Malaysia Airlines' detour through Doha.
Image: Pexels/LT Chan
Airlines also face operational constraints tied to crew flying hours. With flight durations extended, more pilots and cabin crew may be needed to comply with international safety regulations. This could lead to more frequent crew rotations, tighter aircraft scheduling, and potential crew shortages—all of which could strain resources and lead to delays or reduced frequencies on affected routes.
These safety-driven adjustments are grounded in the lessons of aviation history. The tragic downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 over a conflict zone in 2014 remains a cautionary reminder of the risks when commercial aircraft traverse airspace above active conflict. Today, airlines are working closely with aviation authorities and military air traffic control to avoid a repeat.
What Travellers Should Expect:
Extended flight durations due to detours
Possible layovers or refueling stops
Schedule changes or suspensions on certain routes
Higher airfare or fuel surcharges may follow if disruptions continue
Delays linked to crew duty time limitations and aircraft availability
Travellers are strongly advised to check with their airlines before departure, allow for extra transit time, and prepare for possible last-minute changes. Airlines are adjusting routes and placing safety first in the wake of the latest India-Pakistan escalations—and that means navigating not only airspace but also rising operational complexity.
