Flights across the Middle East have been grounded after Israel and the United States launched a massive military campaign against Tehran and other military installations across Iran late on Friday night into Saturday morning.
In response, the Iranian regime fired waves of ballistic missiles towards countries in the Persian Gulf that host US military assets, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.
Dubai-based mega airline, Emirates, has confirmed that all flights to and from Dubai have been suspended indefinitely, after widespread airspace closures were activated across the region.
Qatar Airways has also confirmed that all of its flights to and from Doha have been suspended until further notice, with multiple flights diverting away from Doha as emergency protocols were initiated.
“The airline is working closely with government stakeholders and the relevant authorities to support impacted passengers and will resume operations when the airspace re-opens,” a Qatar Airways spokesperson commented.
“Once usual operations resume, we anticipate delays to our flight schedule,” the statement added.
Emirates said it was “actively monitoring the situation and engaging with relevant authorities.”
The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) for the UAE said it took the decision to shutter its airspace due to the “rapidly escalating security developments in the region.”
Etihad Airways in neighboring Abu Dhabi later warned that flights would be suspended from its home base until 2:00 pm on Sunday, February 1.
Air defense systems have been activated in the UAE and several other Middle East countries, although some Iranian missiles have managed to penetrate these defenses.
The British Foreign and Commonwealth Office urged Britons in Dubai, as well as in Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the rest of the UAE, to shelter in place and to remain indoors in a secure location.
A statement added: “Avoid all travel, monitor official updates, and follow local authorities’ advice.”
The U.S State Department also warned American citizens to shelter in place with concerns that more retaliatory strikes from Iran could continue into Saturday evening.
Airlines have warned passengers that there are currently long hold times to get in touch with their customer service teams.
Given the sheer magnitude of the disruption and the dynamic nature of what is happening, it may take some time for airlines in the region to stabilize their schedules. Passengers should not attempt to travel to the airport unless their flight has been confirmed as operating.
This is a developing story.
