Gulf airlines halt some regional flights after Israel-Iran conflict

Monday, 16 June 2025 04:21 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The escalating conflict between Israel and Iran has sent shockwaves through the Gulf’s aviation sector, as major airlines across the region have suspended flights to multiple destinations and rerouted others amid widespread airspace closures.

With Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Israel, and parts of Lebanon and Syria shutting their skies to commercial air traffic, carriers including Emirates, Etihad, Qatar Airways, Gulf Air, and Air Arabia have been forced to cancel or significantly alter flight schedules.

The fallout from the confrontation, which saw missile exchanges and airstrikes last week, has left thousands of passengers stranded or facing delays.

Dubai-based Emirates Airline announced the suspension of its services to Amman (Jordan) and Beirut (Lebanon) until at least 22 June. Flights to Tehran (Iran) and the Iraqi cities of Baghdad and Basra are halted through 30 June. The airline has advised passengers bound for these destinations — including those connecting via flydubai — that they will not be accepted for travel at their point of origin.

Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Airways has cancelled flights to Tel Aviv (Israel) through today (16), while services to Amman and Beirut resumed yesterday but only for passengers holding existing bookings. The airline continues to reroute multiple services to avoid restricted airspace, warning of potential delays.

“Etihad is closely monitoring airspace and security updates in coordination with the relevant authorities,” the carrier said in a statement, underscoring its commitment to passenger and crew safety.

Qatar Airways confirmed temporary suspensions of flights to Iran, Iraq, and Damascus following the outbreak of hostilities. The airline, like its Gulf counterparts, is navigating significant operational challenges as it adjusts to rapidly changing airspace restrictions.

Gulf Air of Bahrain suspended flights to Baghdad, Najaf, and Amman between 14 and 16 June, with further updates pending as the security situation evolves. The airline is offering assistance to affected passengers.

Air Arabia, operating from Sharjah, has halted flights to Iran, Iraq, Jordan, and several Central Asian destinations, adding to the regional disruption.

The impact of the Middle East airspace closures has extended far beyond the Gulf.

According to industry reports, over 6,000 flights were cancelled globally in the 48 hours following the first strikes, with around 1,800 Europe-bound flights affected and some 650 outright cancelled. Airlines have been forced to adopt longer flight paths, often via Egypt, Saudi Arabia, or Central Asia, increasing fuel costs and extending journey times by hours.

European and Asian aviation regulators have issued updated safety advisories, cautioning carriers about overflight risks in the region, while insurance premiums for flights skirting conflict zones have spiked.

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