Air travel faced major disruptions on February 28 after Israel launched strikes on Iran, prompting airspace closures and widespread flight suspensions. Multiple international carriers halted or rerouted flights over safety concerns. The situation was further compounded as the UAE was targeted by Iranian ballistic missiles, with debris causing material damage and one civilian death, though authorities confirmed overall security remained stable.
Air India and IndiGo suspend Middle East flights
Air India paused all flights to Middle Eastern destinations, citing the evolving security situation. In a travel advisory posted on X, the airline emphasized that passenger and crew safety is its top priority. Similarly, IndiGo cancelled all flights to and from the region until 0000 hours, noting that airspace restrictions around Iran required precautionary measures.
Israel closes airspace
The Israel Airports Authority shut down civilian air traffic following what the Israeli defence minister called a pre-emptive strike against Iran. This closure immediately suspended arrivals and departures at Tel Aviv’s main international airport.
Regional carriers adjust operations
Turkish Airlines cancelled flights to Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Iran, and Jordan until March 2. Qatar Airways temporarily suspended flights due to closed airspace, resuming operations once restrictions are lifted. Air France cancelled flights to Tel Aviv and Beirut on February 28, while Spain’s Iberia Express and Dutch carrier KLM also halted services to Tel Aviv.
European and low-cost carriers respond
Germany’s Lufthansa suspended flights to Tel Aviv, Beirut, and Oman until March 7, along with Dubai routes over the weekend. Hungary-based Wizz Air stopped all flights to and from Israel, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Amman until March 7, monitoring the situation closely.Gulf carriers and authorities react
flydubai noted flight impacts due to the temporary closure of Iraqi, Iranian, and Israeli airspace. Oman Air temporarily suspended flights to Baghdad, and Kuwait’s aviation authority halted all flights to Iran until further notice.
