Amid rising tensions in the Middle East, one major airline canceled all flights to and from the East Coast of the United States and Canada.
Earlier this month, Air India suffered a horrific disaster earlier this month when its Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner with 242 passengers on board crashed leading to the deaths of at least 260 people.
“We have identified 259 victims. They include 240 passengers and 19 non-passengers. DNA test result of one passenger is still awaited,” said Rakesh Joshi, superintendent of Ahmedabad civil hospital. “The site of the crash is still being cleared. Unless we are certain that no additional victims are going to be found, we cannot declare the final death toll.
Just a few weeks later, Air India cut off a number of flights on June 23.
“Amid the developing situation in the Middle East, Air India has ceased all operations to the region as well as to and from the East Coast of North America and Europe with immediate effect, until further notice,” the airline said at the time. Air India revealed the India-bound flights from North America – New York City and Toronto – were being diverted back to their respective origins while those from India were diverted back to the country or re-routed away from closed air space.
“We request the understanding of all passengers who may be affected by this disruption that’s beyond an airline’s control. Air India is in continuous consultation with its external security advisors and is vigilantly monitoring the evolving situation. We will keep our passengers informed of any updates. The safety and security of our passengers and staff remain our number one priority,” the airline said.
Just a day later, Air India revealed it plans to resume flights to certain parts of the Middle East on June 25, while flight to and from Europe are being reinstated on June 24. Service to the East Coast of the United States and Canada don’t have a date attached, but “will resume at the earliest opportunity.”
Related: FAA Makes Telling Decision on Boeing 787s After Air India Crash
Major Airline Air India Abruptly Canceled All United States Flights first appeared on Men’s Journal on Jun 24, 2025
