A Delhi-bound IndiGo flight from Tbilisi in Georgia narrowly crossed Iranian airspace moments before Tehran abruptly shut down most of its skies, highlighting the growing disruption to international aviation caused by the sudden move.
IndiGo flight 6E1808 departed Tbilisi late on Wednesday night and flew over Iran around 2.35 am on Thursday, eventually landing in Delhi at 7.03 am. Aviation tracking data suggests the aircraft was likely the last non-Iranian commercial flight to transit Iranian airspace before aviation authorities issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) enforcing the closure.
The shutdown came amid escalating protests across Iran, which intensified after unrest began on December 28. The decision led to the suspension of most international flights, allowing only a limited number of approved services, and forced airlines worldwide to rapidly alter routes or cancel operations.
The closure has significantly affected Indian carriers operating westbound routes. IndiGo has cancelled its Mumbai&ndash;Tbilisi and Tbilisi&ndash;Mumbai flights scheduled for Friday due to the restricted airspace. Other airlines, including Air India and SpiceJet, have also issued advisories asking passengers to check flight statuses and opt for rescheduling or refunds where necessary.
IndiGo stated that the disruptions were beyond its control and assured passengers of assistance. Air India said flights that can avoid the restricted zone are being rerouted, though delays are expected, while services unable to bypass Iranian airspace have been cancelled.
Iran lies on a key aviation corridor connecting Europe, Central Asia and South Asia. Any sudden restriction forces airlines to take longer alternative routes, increasing flight times, fuel consumption and operational strain. The impact extends to multiple international routes, including those linking India with the Caucasus and parts of Europe.
Airlines and passengers are closely monitoring developments, with travellers advised to regularly check official airline updates before departure.

Tbilisi–Delhi flight passes Iran just before sudden airspace closure

IndiGo Flight Beats Iran Airspace Shutdown

Tbilisi–Delhi flight passes Iran just before sudden airspace closure

January 15, 2026 | 12:22 IST