Airlines reroute and cancel Middle East flights amid rising regional tensions

Airlines are reassessing operations in the Middle East after U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear sites and growing fears of retaliation from Tehran. The conflict, intensified since Israel’s strikes on June 13, has led to widespread airspace avoidance from Iran and Iraq to the Mediterranean.

Key impacts

• Major carriers like Finnair, Singapore Airlines, Air France, Iberia, and British Airways have cancelled flights to hubs like Dubai, Doha, Riyadh, and Beirut.
• Finnair suspended flights to Doha until at least June 30.
• Air France also halted service to Lebanon and Saudi Arabia.
• U.S. carriers (American, United, Air Canada) had earlier suspended Middle East routes and have not resumed service.

Why it matters

• Airlines fear drone or missile attacks targeting U.S. bases in Gulf countries.
• Rerouted flights via the Caspian Sea or southern routes (Egypt/Saudi Arabia) raise fuel and crew costs.
• Jet fuel prices may spike due to oil market reactions.
• GPS spoofing and jamming over the Persian Gulf are increasing, raising navigation and safety concerns.
• SkAI reported 150+ aircraft spoofed in 24 hours.

Regional response

• Some local airlines in Jordan, Lebanon, and Iraq are cautiously resuming operations.
• Israel is running rescue and limited outbound flights; El Al reported 25,000 requests to leave in a day.

Overall, the aviation sector faces growing operational challenges as conflict zones expand and safety risks in Middle Eastern airspace intensify.