Air India special flight headed to Kyiv to bring back stranded students has been recalled as Ukraine closed airspace for civilian flights in the wake of Russia’s announcement of military action in the crisis-hit country.

The flight had taken off today morning at around 7:30 to bring back Indians, especially students from Ukraine.

“Ukraine flight AI1947 Recalled. Returning to Delhi,” said an Air India official.

Air India had announced to operate three special flights to Ukraine to fly back Indians due to impending fear of a military confrontation between Russia and Ukraine.

Meanwhile, an Ukrainian International Airline (UIA) special flight with 182 Indians landed in Delhi on Thursday from Ukraine. A few thousand Indian students are believed to be stuck in Ukraine and awaiting their return.