NEW DELHI: Amid escalating tensions between
Russia
and
Ukraine
, the latter closed its airspace to civilian flights on Thursday, citing a high risk to safety.
In view of the closure of Ukrainian air space, the Indian Embassy in
Kyiv
said that the schedule of special flights stands cancelled, however, alternative arrangements are being made for the evacuation of Indian nationals. " Follow Embassy website, social media posts and contact on the numbers," the embassy said.
Earlier in the day, a special
Air India flight returning from mid-air as Ukraine airspace is closed due to notice to airmen (NOTAM) as war has been started between Russia and Ukraine.
An empty flight of Air India AI-1947 is returning from over Iran air space as Ukraine imposed restrictions on civilian aircraft, sources said.
Notice to airmen (NOTAM), is a notice filed with an aviation authority to alert aircraft pilots of potential hazards along a flight route or at a location that could affect the flight.
Air India is scheduled to operate a second special flight for Ukraine to bring back stranded Indian citizens.
Amid the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, several airlines are operating special flights, including Air India, to bring back Indian nationals safely.
In the coming days for Indian citizens, more flights are going to be operated from Ukraine (
Kiev
) amid tension in the country.
(With inputs from agencies)