Israel-Iran Conflict Sparks Widespread Disruption to Middle East Flights

The ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran have caused severe disruption to air travel across the Middle East, affecting thousands of international passengers.

Major airlines have rerouted or cancelled flights due to safety concerns, especially through key transit hubs like Doha, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi. Qatar’s Hamad International Airport briefly halted operations on Monday, while flights were also paused at Dubai Airport, with passengers warned of continuing delays and cancellations.

The situation escalated after Iran launched missiles at a U.S. military base in Qatar, reportedly in retaliation for American strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.

Air India suspended all operations to the Middle East and to destinations in North America and Europe. Japan Airlines also cancelled its Tokyo–Doha route.

As strategic stopovers for long-haul flights between Europe, Asia, and Australia, the Gulf’s major airports typically handle nearly 500,000 passengers daily. The disruption has left hundreds stranded, with many struggling to access food, water, and rest areas in transit lounges.

Aviation experts warn that the fallout could spread far beyond the region. Longer flight paths mean higher fuel costs, logistical complications, and potential crew shortages due to regulated rest times.

Governments worldwide have issued travel advisories, and decisions on whether to operate flights in affected areas are now being made daily.

The risks are real. According to Osprey Flight Solutions, six commercial planes have been unintentionally shot down since 2001. The 2014 downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 over Ukraine remains the most notorious example.

Due to regional airspace closures—covering Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan—roughly 1,400 daily flights now face detours either north via Turkey or south via Saudi Arabia, increasing congestion and complexity in already strained air corridors.

While a temporary ceasefire was announced by U.S. President Donald Trump and accepted by Israel, fresh accusations of ceasefire violations have re-ignited tensions, with Israel claiming Iran broke the truce. Tehran denies the allegations but has warned it will respond to any future attacks.