IndiGo Manchester flight makes u-turn amid sudden airspace restrictions
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New Delhi: IndiGo’s Manchester-bound flight 6E033, which departed from Delhi, was forced to return to its origin after nearly seven hours in the air due to sudden airspace restrictions linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, the airline confirmed on Monday.
According to an IndiGo spokesperson, the flight had to reverse course because of “last-minute airspace restrictions” caused by the evolving situation in and around the Middle East. “Due to the ongoing situation in West Asia, some of our flights may take longer routes or experience diversions,” the official added.
The flight, operated by Norse, made a U-turn near the border between Ethiopia and Eritrea before heading back to Delhi. This was the first Delhi–Manchester flight by IndiGo since February 26. The airline said it is working with relevant authorities to explore options for resuming the journey. “The safety and security of our customers, crew, and aircraft is of utmost importance to us,” the spokesperson emphasised.
The incident was first highlighted by Flightradar24 on social media platform X, which shared tracking data showing the aircraft reversing course toward India. The tracker also noted operational changes among major UAE carriers, including increased flights by Air Arabia, Emirates, and flydubai, while Etihad and Qatar Airways operated fewer flights as of March 8.
The incident affected investor sentiment, with shares of InterGlobe Aviation (IndiGo) closing at Rs 4,236 on Monday, down around 4 per cent on the BSE. The stock touched an intraday low of Rs 4,035.65, an 8.37 per cent decline from last week’s closing, amid rising crude prices.
Crude oil surged above $100 per barrel due to the Middle East conflict, with prices nearly reaching $110 per barrel after major regional producers cut output. The Strait of Hormuz remained effectively closed amid tensions with Iran.
With IANS inputs
