Pakistan airspace closure: What does DGCA mean for airlines and passengers; will there be flight delays or cancellations?

In the case of longer international flights, Indian Carriers issued a consulting service on Saturday requiring airlines to strengthen passenger communications and on-flight services.

With Pakistan shutting down the skies, several international flights, especially from North Indian cities such as Delhi, are now taking longer routes and even stopover technology. To manage this, DGCA has introduced a range of passenger handling measures for transparency, comfort and safety.

The consultation highlights five key areas: maintaining passenger notifications before flights, improving in-flight dining and comfort, enhancing medical preparation and support at alternative airports, promoting customer service teams, and ensuring smooth coordination throughout the department.

Please read also:Pakistan airspace shuts down, hitting India-US flights for India-European flights; fares may climb, airlines send inquiries

The aviation regulator noted that airspace restrictions have led to significant improvements to flights, longer obstacles and the possibility of technology cease operations or refueling demand.

Here is what the airline was told to do:

• Pre-flight communication: A clear understanding of passenger route changes, longer travel times and any technical stops – usually retained on board. Airlines must communicate with this at check-in counters, check-in doors, and when alerts are made via text or email.

Please read also: The government has asked airlines to ensure that tickets in Srinagar have not surged. Airline operates ADDL flights

• On-flight dining and comfort: As flight hours increase, airlines must update their dining plans as required by passengers to provide enough meals, drinks, dry snacks and special meals.

• Medical preparation and alternative airports: Airlines need to ensure that medical kits are well stored and are provided in alternative airports in emergency support including ambulances. Cabin staff should be prepared to manage passenger fatigue or any medical problems.

• Customer service ready: Airlines must prepare call centers and support teams to deal with delays, missed contacts, and provide assistance or compensation in accordance with regulations and rules.

• Internal internal coordination: Flight dispatch, business teams, ground handling personnel, onboard services and medical providers must proceed smoothly to minimize interference.

DGCA makes it clear that ignoring these guidelines (or causing inconvenience to passengers) may cause strict action under the Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) rules.