Travel time between the East – including India – and the West could soon become shorter as international aviation regulators are allowing commercial aircraft to resume overflying Afghanistan. This decision comes after a halt in flights over the country since August 2021 when the Taliban regained control.
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has given permission for American airlines to overfly the Kabul flight information region (FIR), covering all of Afghanistan, at altitudes above 32,000 feet. The FAA cited reduced risks to US civil aviation operations as the reason for this decision.
Similarly, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has directed its member state airlines to fly over Afghanistan at or above 32,000 feet due to the ongoing potential threat to civil aviation at lower altitudes. Several major European carriers, including those with significant routes to India, are reportedly planning test flights over the country. However, Indian aviation authorities have not commented on the matter.
The cessation of flights over Afghanistan had resulted in longer travel times as airlines had to take detours to avoid its airspace, adding approximately half an hour to flights. Furthermore, when Russia attacked Ukraine last summer, the restrictions on overflying Russian airspace exacerbated the congestion on alternative routes. The reopening of Afghanistan for overflights will alleviate some of the strain on these heavily used airways.
The resumption of overflying Afghanistan not only promises to reduce travel times but also has significant implications for the aviation industry as a whole. Shorter travel routes translate into reduced fuel consumption and costs for airlines, as well as decreased carbon emissions. Additionally, it will contribute to the overall efficiency of air traffic management and improve connectivity between East and West.
However, it is important to note that concerns still exist regarding the security situation in Afghanistan. The decision to allow overflights above 32,000 feet indicates that there is still a perceived risk below that altitude. Balancing the need for shorter travel times with ensuring the safety of passengers and crews remains a top priority for the aviation industry.
As airlines gradually resume overflying Afghanistan, it will be crucial for them to closely monitor the situation on the ground and coordinate with relevant authorities to ensure the continued safety of their operations. The resumption of flights over Afghanistan will undeniably bring benefits to travelers, but it must be done with caution and careful consideration of the security landscape.
In conclusion, the recent decision by international aviation regulators to allow commercial aircraft to resume overflying Afghanistan at specific altitudes is expected to shorten travel times between the East and West. This development will not only save time for passengers but also bring economic and environmental advantages to the aviation industry. However, it is essential to acknowledge the security concerns that persist in Afghanistan and prioritize the safety of all those involved in air travel.
