Due to the growing security concerns in parts of the Middle East, several major airlines have temporarily stopped flights to airports in Qatar and the UAE. Many flights are being rerouted or delayed, and operations are being adjusted across the region. Travelers are advised to stay updated with their airline for any changes to their travel plans.
This latest wave of disruptions comes in the wake of escalating conflict involving U.S. and Iranian forces, which has led to the closure of airspace over Iran, Iraq, and parts of the Gulf region. Security concerns, particularly related to drone and missile threats, have prompted airlines to act swiftly to protect passengers and crew.
Temporary Closures and Reopenings
Following a recent Iranian attack on a U.S. military base in Qatar, several major airports—Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Doha, Dubai, and Kuwait—briefly suspended operations for a few hours. While flights have since resumed, airport authorities have warned of ongoing delays and possible further cancellations throughout today and possibly tomorrow.
International Airlines Respond
Major global carriers have taken immediate action to ensure safety:
Air France has suspended flights to Tel Aviv (until July 14), Riyadh, and Beirut (until June 25).
British Airways cancelled several flights to Dubai, Doha, Bahrain, and Riyadh, but has started resuming services to Qatar and the UAE.
Iberia had temporarily stopped flights to Doha but is expected to restart operations today.
Lufthansa Group, including Swiss, Austrian Airlines, and ITA Airways, has halted flights to Tel Aviv, Tehran, and other Middle Eastern destinations until the end of June.
Singapore Airlines has suspended its Dubai services until at least June 25.
Finnair has paused its flights to Doha through June 30.
Qantas and Virgin Australia have rerouted flights via alternate paths or, in some cases, turned back aircraft mid-flight.
Air India has suspended operations through several Middle Eastern corridors, affecting connections to Europe and North America.
American Airlines, United Airlines, and Air Canada have either cancelled or adjusted flights, mainly affecting services to Doha and Dubai.
Impact on Middle East-Based Airlines
Regional carriers are also implementing major changes:
Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Flydubai have suspended or diverted flights heading to Iran, Iraq, Syria, Israel, and Qatar. Passengers traveling through Abu Dhabi and Dubai airports should expect notable delays.
Qatar Airways has suspended services to multiple destinations and continues to evaluate its routes.
Air Arabia and Kuwait Airways have reduced their flight schedules.
Pakistan International Airlines has cancelled flights to several cities in the Gulf region.
Passenger Advisory and Coordination Efforts
Airlines are urging passengers to monitor flight statuses closely and take advantage of flexible rebooking policies. Routes that remain in operation may face longer travel times due to detours avoiding closed or restricted airspace.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA), along with civil aviation authorities, is working closely with airlines to assess ongoing risks and determine when it will be safe to resume normal operations. However, the situation remains highly dynamic, and airlines may continue to make last-minute changes as needed.
