Gulf airlines suspend flights for third day after US, Israeli strikes disrupt airspace
Flight suspensions across Gulf countries entered a third day after US and Israeli strikes on Iran led to airspace closures. Major airlines including Emirates, Etihad, Air India and IndiGo cancelled services, leaving thousands of passengers, including Indian pilgrims, stranded
By Gulf Correspondent
Dubai: Airlines and airport operators across most Gulf countries extended flight suspensions for a third consecutive day after US and Israeli strikes on Iran triggered widespread airspace closures, disrupting global travel routes.
Major Gulf hubs halted operations as authorities kept sections of regional airspace closed, forcing carriers to cancel thousands of flights and reroute long-haul services linking Europe, Asia and Australia. Flight cancellations affected seven airports across the region on March 1, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, Doha in Qatar, and Manama in Bahrain.
Emirates said in a statement that, due to multiple regional airspace closures, it has temporarily suspended all operations to and from Dubai until 3:00 p.m. UAE time on March 3.
“The situation remains dynamic and is assessed continuously. We urge all customers to review the latest operational updates on emirates.com and check their email for any notifications about changes or cancellations to their flights before travelling to the airport,” the airline said.
Etihad Airways also temporarily suspended its flights to and from Abu Dhabi until 2:00 p.m. UAE time on March 3. Hamad International Airport said flights remain suspended and will resume once the Civil Aviation Authority announces the reopening of Qatari airspace. The airport advised passengers not to travel to the airport and to contact their airlines for updates.
Major Indian carriers Air India and IndiGo also suspended their flights across the region, leaving passengers stranded at several airports. Indian Umrah pilgrims who arrived on Indian carriers are facing difficulties in Saudi Arabia, as flight services were halted and their hotel stay duration has ended.