As tensions rise, airlines steer clear of the Middle East
Airlines are steering clear of the Middle East and suspending flights in response to rising tensions. European and Gulf airlines have announced modifications to flight routes and the grounding of aircraft in response to escalating tensions in the Middle East, following Iran’s missile strikes on Israel. Airlines such as Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, and Deutsche Lufthansa have adjusted their routes and schedules in response to the evolving circumstances in the Middle East.
Etihad Airways, based in Abu Dhabi, announced the suspension of its Wednesday service to Tel Aviv, Israel, and has rerouted several flights due to airspace restrictions affecting certain regions of the Middle East. The company indicated that the rerouting measure is expected to result in certain disruptions and delays for several flights in the forthcoming days.
In a sudden escalation, Iran launched a series of missiles targeting Israel, igniting demands for a response. The recent assault marks the second instance following Iran’s inaugural direct offensive in April, heightening concerns over a potential escalation into a broader regional conflict that could further involve Israel’s northern neighbor, Lebanon. The assault by Iran followed Israel’s initiation of a ground operation targeting the militant organization Hezbollah in Lebanon on Tuesday. Israel is currently involved in a conflict with Hamas in Gaza.
Qatar Airways has announced a temporary suspension of flights to and from destinations in Iraq and Iran, citing airspace restrictions as the reason for this decision. The company announced that it has also modified the routes of several flights. Qatar Airways stated that the updated routing, which includes potential diversions, will impact several international flights until the closure of airspace is fully lifted.
In Europe, the German airline Deutsche Lufthansa announced on Wednesday its decision to bypass Iranian, Iraqi, and Jordanian airspace, resulting in the suspension of flights to Amman, Jordan, and Erbil, Iraq. The airline group, comprising Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, and Swiss International Air Lines, announced its intention to maintain a ban on Israeli airspace until October 31.
