Bombay flights continue despite terror attacks

Airlines operating out of the UK have continued to operate flights to the Indian city of Bombay, despite a Foreign Office warning against all but essential travel.

The city has been struck by a wave of terrorist attacks over the last two days, with over a hundred dead and hostages still held at the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel and Oberoi-Trident Hotels.

Initial reports suggest American and British targets were sought by attackers, leading the Foreign Office to advise against travel to the city. Recommendations for the rest of India remain unchanged.

In spite of the Foreign Office warning British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Air India and Jet Airways have all continued to operate as normal.

In contrast European and American airlines have halted or reduced departures to Mumbai, the commercial capital of India.

Alitalia has announced there will be no further departures until further notice, while Lufthansa has cancelled flights from Frankfurt and Munich.

Air France cancelled an earlier departure but expects to operate a normal service from Friday November 28th.

In the UK both Virgin Atlantic and British Airways are offering passengers a chance to modify flights to Mumbai up to and including December 3rd.

Chris O'Toole