Global air traffic has experienced significant disruptions following Israel’s recent airstrikes on Iran, leading several major airlines to suspend flights and reroute operations to avoid the conflict-affected region. The airspace above Iran, Israel, Jordan, Syria, and Iraq has seen a dramatic reduction in commercial flight activity, as reported by flight-tracking service Flightradar24.
In response to the escalating situation, airspace closures were enacted by Israel, Iran, and Jordan. Specifically, Iran’s civil aviation authority announced a suspension of all domestic and international flights, effectively grounding airlines operating within its borders. Tehran’s Mehrabad Airport and Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport have been shuttered, with the former set to remain closed until Saturday afternoon and the latter indefinitely. Meanwhile, Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport has also ceased operations, advising travelers to consult their airlines for updates.
As the military strikes unfolded, flights were quick to adjust, with Air India reporting that a number of its routes from major global cities such as New York, London, and Vancouver were impacted. Notably, a Delta Air Lines flight from New York to Tel Aviv had to return to JFK after several hours in the air.
Israeli airlines like El Al and Israir have begun evacuating their aircraft as a precaution against potential Iranian retaliation. Reports indicate that planes have been diverted to nearby locations, including Cyprus, where 32 flights were redirected to Larnaca and Paphos airports.
The disruption in scheduled air travel is extensive, with reports indicating around 650 flights to and from Europe being canceled by Friday, along with an overall total of about 1,800 flights affected across the continent, according to Eurocontrol.
Airlines like Lufthansa and Emirates have announced suspensions of flights to various destinations in the Middle East, while Air France and KLM have halted services to Tel Aviv indefinitely. Qatar Airways has also temporarily canceled flights to Iran and Iraq.
The ongoing situation highlights the fragility of international travel amid geopolitical tensions. Travelers are advised to monitor updates closely and communicate with their airlines regarding any changes to flight schedules. This incident serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of global air travel and the impact of regional conflicts on international travel hubs.