Skyrocketing Air Fares: Pakistan, Iran-Israel Conflicts Push Prices Up 20%

Business News: air travelers across India are facing a steep 20% hike in air fares, triggered by Pakistan’s political unrest and the escalating Iran-Israel conflict. Airspace closures over Pakistan, Iran, Iraq, and Syria have forced airlines to reroute flights, inflating costs and disrupting schedules. This unprecedented surge is straining passengers and airlines alike, with no immediate resolution in sight.

Airspace Closures Cause Chaos

The Iran-Israel war, intensified by U.S. strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites and Iran’s missile attacks on Tel Aviv, has closed key Middle Eastern air routes since June 22. Simultaneously, Pakistan’s airspace, shut intermittently due to ongoing protests and security concerns, has blocked direct paths to Europe and Central Asia. Airlines like Air India, IndiGo, and Emirates are now rerouting via Egypt or Kazakhstan, adding 2-3 hours to flight times and increasing fuel costs by 15%.

Impact on Ticket Prices

The rerouting has driven air fares up by 20% on major routes. A Delhi-Dubai economy ticket, previously ₹15,000, now costs ₹18,000-₹20,000. Mumbai-London fares have surged from ₹50,000 to ₹60,000. Over 200 daily flights from India to the Gulf and Europe are affected, with cancellations stranding passengers. For instance, an Air India flight to Chennai returned to Dubai on June 22, leaving travelers like Priya Sharma frustrated. “I’m paying double for a rescheduled flight,” she said.

Airlines and Economy Under Strain

Indian carriers face ₹100 crore in additional weekly costs, prompting fare hikes and reduced services. The ripple effect threatens India’s economy, with rising fuel import costs due to a 6% oil price spike. The Ministry of Civil Aviation is coordinating with airlines to minimize disruptions, but longer routes are unavoidable until airspace reopens.

Navigating the Turbulence

Travelers are advised to book early, opt for flexible tickets, and monitor advisories from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation. As Pakistan’s turmoil and the Iran-Israel conflict show no signs of abating, India’s aviation sector braces for prolonged challenges, urging resilience from passengers and strategic planning from airlines.