Iran Partially Reopens Airspace Amid Israel Conflict; Exit Options Expand for Indians

After a 20-day closure due to the escalating Israel conflict, Iran has begun partially reopening its airspace, allowing limited resumption of commercial flights and offering more exit routes for foreign nationals, including Indians.

Airspace and Airport Status

Tehran’s Imam Khomeini and Mehrabad airports have resumed limited international operations, such as Flydubai flights from the UAE. However, flights remain restricted to daytime hours (5:00 am–6:00 pm local time).

• Eastern Iran’s airspace is now operating 24/7.

• Airports in Isfahan and Tabriz remain shut due to damage and are pending repairs.

While aviation operations gradually resume, land borders and ferry services are also providing crucial alternatives. Border crossings to Armenia (Agarak) and Türkiye (Kapiköy/Esendere) are currently open and operational. Ferries connecting Iran with neighboring countries are running but with irregular schedules.

---

Exit Routes for Indians in Iran

Indian nationals currently in Iran now have several options to leave the country:

• Commercial flights from operational airports like Tehran’s Imam Khomeini.

• Land routes through Armenia and Türkiye.

• Ferry services, though these remain inconsistent.

The Indian Embassy in Tehran has urged citizens to move to safer zones using their own means. So far:

• Over 700 Indians have relocated to cities like Qom.

• At least 110 Indian students have crossed into Armenia via Agarak.

Borders with Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan remain restricted; Indian nationals must obtain special entry approvals via U.S. Embassies before attempting those routes.

In a public update, the Embassy wrote on X (formerly Twitter):

“Iranian airspace is gradually reopening, and commercial flights to and from Iran are expected to progressively resume. Similarly, commercial ferry services are also plying between Iranian ports and neighboring countries.”

---

Critical Advisory for Indian Citizens

Before planning any departure, all Indian nationals are strongly advised to:

• Register their location with the Embassy of India in Tehran
  📞 +98 9010144557 / +98 9128109115

• Carry sufficient cash (preferably USD) due to unreliable card payment systems

• Be prepared for internet outages

• Keep mobile phones fully charged during travel

• Carry printed copies of identification and travel documents

⚠️ Dual Indian-Iranian nationals face additional challenges, as Iran does not recognize dual citizenship. Those holding U.S. passports may face confiscation and must exit using Iranian documents with valid transit visas. Additional questioning at checkpoints should be expected.

---

On-the-Ground Challenges

Despite easing restrictions, significant flight disruptions persist, primarily due to airspace and infrastructure damage. Only aircraft capable of flying above 25,000 feet are allowed over western Iran, limiting access for smaller planes.

The embassy continues to advise against all non-essential travel to Iran. Ride-hailing services like Snapp and Tap30 are functioning in urban areas for internal transit.

If using land borders, especially the Armenian route, travelers should:

• Check daily updates on border status

• Expect delays and additional checks

• Have printed documentation ready to ease passage