Air India Mumbai-London flight returns after being airborne for 3 hours: Reports

The Mumbai-London flight remained airborne for three hours after departing from the airport at 5:39 am.

In a statement, Air India said that due to the situation in Iran and the closure of its airspace, several of its flights are either being diverted or returning to their origin.

"We regret the inconvenience caused to our passengers due to this unforeseen disruption and are making every effort to minimise it, including providing accommodation for passengers. Refunds on cancellation or complimentary rescheduling is also being offered to guests who opt for it. Alternative arrangements are being made to fly passengers to their destinations," the Air India statement read.

Israel on Friday said it conducted "preemptive" strikes on Iran, targeting its nuclear sites, further escalating tension in the region.

It also launched fresh strikes late at night, prompting Iran to activate its air defence system.

The Iranian Civil Aviation Authority also announced the closure of the country's airspace.

Israel too declared a full airspace lockdown and heightened emergency readiness along its northern and southern borders.