Emirates cancels regional flights as Middle East airspace closures spread

Flights to Jordan and Lebanon are among the services grounded by Emirates following a wave of airspace restrictions across the Gulf, Dubai Airports confirmed, as the fallout from strikes on Iran continues to ripple through regional aviation.

Aviation authorities in the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Iran and Iraq have all announced precautionary measures in recent days, triggering widespread cancellations, diversions and delays. The restrictions stem from heightened security tensions tied to the airstrikes, which prompted governments across the region to limit or shut access to their airspace.

Emirates has not identified which routes beyond those to Jordan and Lebanon were affected, but the carrier said it is adjusting operations in response to the fast-moving situation. “We are actively monitoring the situation, engaging with relevant authorities, and adjusting our operations in line with the latest developments. Emirates adheres to all regulatory requirements and follows guidance issued by aviation authorities,” the airline said in a statement.

Passengers caught by the disruptions are being offered rebooking, refunds or alternative travel arrangements, Emirates said, adding: “The safety and security of our passengers and crew remain our highest priority.”

The scale of the airspace closures has made this one of the more significant disruptions to Gulf aviation in recent memory, with carriers across the region forced to suspend or reroute services simultaneously.