Iran conflict: Rising operation costs, fares add to West Asia flight nightmare

West Asian conflict is causing airlines, especially Indian ones, significant operational challenges and fare hikes due to Pakistan airspace closure. Air India seeks approval for a new Central Asia route to bypass war zones and mitigate rising costs, including soaring insurance premiums and fuel prices. This crisis is leading to a demand-supply mismatch, drastically increasing ticket prices for passengers.

By SAURABH SINHA