Airline Pilots' Association advises pilots to exercise situational awareness, risk assessments in West Asia

Issuing an advisory, ALPA acknowledged the increased risk to civil aviation operations in the region and advised them to take note of the aviation insurance coverage.

ALPA wrote, "Recent geopolitical developments and escalating military tensions in several areas of the Middle East have resulted in an increased risk to civil aviation operations. These include the potential for airspace closures, missile and drone activity, electronic warfare interference, and the possibility of misidentification of civil aircraft operating in or transiting through affected regions."

"While operators may continue to schedule flights through certain airspaces based on regulatory clearances or operational considerations, pilots must remain aware that the risk environment in these areas can change rapidly and without adequate warning," the advisory read.

Asking the pilots and the crew to go through the insurance provisions, ALPA noted that the insurance providers may withdraw or limit coverage for operations conducted in designated conflict zones.

"In addition, members are advised to take note of the potential implications related to aviation insurance coverage, particularly with respect to war-risk clauses. Under certain circumstances, insurance providers may withdraw or limit coverage for operations conducted in designated conflict zones or high-risk airspaces. In such situations, there may be ambiguity regarding the extent of insurance protection available to crew members," ALPA wrote.

The association advised the pilots to "Exercise heightened situational awareness when operating to, from, or through regions in the Middle East experiencing heightened tensions. Carefully review all operational briefings, NOTAMS, and company advisories prior to flight. Seek clarity from their operators regarding insurance coverage and war-risk protection applicable to the planned operation."

"Ensure that appropriate operational risk assessments have been conducted by the operator for any flights planned in or near conflict-affected areas. Exercise professional judgement and raise safety concerns through established reporting channels where required," the association added.

"ALPA India reiterates that the safety and protection of flight crews and passengers must remain paramount. Members should not hesitate to seek clarification or raise legitimate safety concerns should they believe that operational risks have not been adequately mitigated. ALPA India continues to monitor developments closely and remains engaged with relevant authorities. and international pilot associations to ensure that the concerns of Indian pilots are appropriately represented. Members are encouraged to remain vigilant and prioritise safety at all times," the advisory read.

This comes amid the West Asia conflict, which began with the US and Israel strikes on February 28, and has led to airspace restrictions and operational challenges for airlines.

Earlier today, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that around 2,80,000 people have returned to India from West Asia.

Addressing an inter-ministerial briefing on recent developments in West Asia, Aseem Mahajan, Joint Secretary (Gulf) in the MEA, noted that despite disruptions in some countries, the overall flight situation is gradually improving.

"While there have been operational closures in some countries, overall, the flight situation continues to improve with additional flights operating. Since February 28, around 2,80,000 passengers have returned from the region to India," Mahajan said.

He added that airlines are continuing to operate limited non-scheduled flights between the UAE and India, depending on operational feasibility and safety considerations. (ANI)