Iran war impact: Lufthansa, Cathay capitalize on Air India’s massive international flight cuts

New Delhi: Air India’s thousands of flight cuts due to the Iran war and Pakistan’s airspace ban have become a boon for foreign carriers, with Lufthansa Group and Cathay Pacific among those adding services to one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets.

With their Middle Eastern routes curtailed and some passengers wary of connecting in the conflict-hit Gulf, India has become more attractive for international airlines looking to capitalise on strong demand for flights from South Asia to Europe and North America that has led to higher airfares.