IndiGo to Suspend Flights on This Route; Decision Taken Due to US-Iran Conflict

Amidst the ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran, as well as the prevailing airspace crisis, IndiGo has taken a major decision. The airline is set to temporarily suspend all its flights to Manchester, effective August 31, 2026. Following this decision, the airline will return one of the six Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft it had leased from Norse Atlantic Airways.

According to the airline, tensions in the Middle East, high Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) costs, and foreign exchange fluctuations have significantly driven up operating costs. IndiGo stated that this decision is temporary; all other long-haul flights will continue to operate as scheduled. The airline added that affected passengers would be offered alternative travel arrangements or a full refund. Flight operations to Manchester were originally launched in July of last year.

**Airline to Return Dreamliner Aircraft**
Due to the suspension of flights, IndiGo will return one of its six large leased 'Dreamliner' aircraft to the lessor from which it was acquired. The airline had leased these aircraft from Norse Atlantic Airways in 2025. These aircraft were being utilized for long-haul flights connecting to major European cities.

**Airspace Restrictions Over Several Countries**
It is worth noting that ongoing tensions in the Middle East have led to airspace restrictions over several countries. Consequently, flight routes have become longer. These extended routes have resulted in increased consumption of aviation fuel (ATF). Furthermore, the airline's operating expenses have surged significantly due to high fuel prices and fluctuations in the dollar-rupee exchange rate. IndiGo stated that the actual costs incurred on this route have far exceeded the initial projections.

**Conflict Began on February 28**
The conflict between the United States and Iran began on February 28 of this year. On that day, the United States and Israel launched a joint attack against Iran. Multiple missiles were fired at its military bases, air defense systems, and government infrastructure. This US-Israeli attack resulted in the deaths of several leaders, including Iran's Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Iran launched attacks on American and Israeli bases. It fired drones at ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran subsequently closed the Strait of Hormuz, causing severe disruption to oil supplies.