A wave of flight cancellations and airspace restrictions has swept across the Middle East as escalating tensions between the United States, Iran, and Israel raise serious concerns for civil aviation safety. According to flight risk monitoring organisation Safe Airspace, U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear sites could increase threats to American carriers in the region, even in the absence of specific threats to civilian aircraft.
Airlines across the globe are responding swiftly. Singapore Airlines cancelled its Singapore–Dubai service following a security review, while British Airways halted operations to both Dubai and Doha. The affected BA flights were suspended for Sunday only, though customers scheduled to fly to these cities until June 24 have been offered free rebooking through July 6. Singapore Airlines has similarly warned that future flights could be impacted due to the evolving situation.
U.S. carriers have already taken precautionary steps: American Airlines suspended flights to Qatar, and United Airlines paused its Dubai operations in the days leading up to the U.S. military action.
Since Israel’s offensive against Iran began on June 13, numerous international airlines have been diverting their routes away from Iranian, Iraqi, Syrian, and Israeli airspace, opting instead for safer corridors via the Caspian Sea or Egypt and Saudi Arabia. While these diversions lead to increased flight durations and fuel costs, safety remains the overriding concern. Flight tracking data from FlightRadar24 stated the widespread avoidance of conflict-affected skies.
In a temporary measure to facilitate the return of citizens, Israel reopened its airspace on Sunday between 1100 and 1700 GMT, allowing limited rescue flights to land. El Al, Arkia, Israir, and Air Haifa resumed services during this window, with plans to operate at least 10 flights. However, El Al has extended its suspension of regular flights until Friday, and Israir has stopped selling tickets through July 7.
The suspension of commercial flights has left tens of thousands of Israelis and tourists stranded, with many attempting to exit the region via alternative routes through Jordan, Egypt, and even maritime travel to Cyprus.
Concerns are not limited to commercial air traffic. Safe Airspace has cautioned that the risks could soon expand to neighbouring countries including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. “We continue to advise a high degree of caution at this time,” the organisation stated.
Governments have begun evacuation efforts for their citizens. Japan has conducted two overland evacuations from Iran to Azerbaijan, moving 21 individuals including 16 Japanese nationals. New Zealand announced it is dispatching a Hercules military aircraft to the region and is working with commercial airlines to support evacuation efforts if needed.
With the ongoing closure of Russian and Ukrainian airspace due to war, Middle East flight corridors remain vital for Europe–Asia connections. The addition of regional instability poses a fresh challenge for airlines already managing complex logistical landscapes. Additionally, industry experts warn that U.S. military action may drive up oil prices, potentially increasing jet fuel costs for global carriers.
As the situation develops, aviation authorities and airlines worldwide are maintaining heightened vigilance, prioritising passenger safety while navigating the volatile geopolitical landscape.
