A number of major American and European airlines have suspended flights to key destinations in the Arabian Gulf, as tensions escalate between Israel and Iran, now entering their second week. The decisions come amid fears of broader regional fallout and the potential for US military involvement in strikes on Iranian nuclear infrastructure. American Airlines Group Inc., Finnair Oyj, United Airlines Holdings Inc., Air France-KLM, British Airways, and Air Canada have all altered flight operations to the region. Many of these changes directly affect some of the busiest and typically stable transit points in the Middle East.

These changes mark a significant shift, as the Gulf region, particularly Dubai (home to Emirates) and Doha (home to Qatar Airways)—has remained mostly unaffected during nearly two years of elevated tensions in the Middle East. Historically, cancellations were limited to airspace near direct conflict zones or missile flight paths, such as in and around Israel, Lebanon, and Syria.

Heightened Risk and Strategic Concerns in the Region

The latest cancellations reflect the growing unease in areas generally considered safe for international transit. Tehran has issued multiple warnings, threatening to strike US military bases in the Gulf if Washington proceeds with any action against Iran. Notably, Iran has threatened to shut down the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for global oil shipments that borders the UAE and Oman. On Friday, flight tracking services showed large stretches of airspace over Iran, Israel, and nearby countries completely deserted—an unusual but stark indication of risk. That same day, Israel blocked overflights and Iran suspended operations at Tehran’s main airport. Neighboring countries, including Iraq, Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon, have repeatedly opened and closed their airspace in response to the volatile military exchanges between Israel and Iran. Access to Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, a facility used by multinational forces, was temporarily restricted, according to a statement by the US Embassy in Qatar. The base is a key strategic site in the region, housing the largest US military presence in the Middle East, with over 45,000 service members spread across 19 sites, according to the Council on Foreign Relations. Bahrain, meanwhile, continues to host the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet.

Safety Concerns for Travelers and Airlines

American Airlines cited an official warning from the US Embassy in Qatar as a key reason for suspending service. The embassy had advised US citizens and staff to “exercise increased vigilance,” avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, stay alert in public spaces associated with the US, and “keep a low profile.” This advisory was published Thursday on the US State Department website. The airline stated:“We will continue to monitor the situation with safety and security top of mind and will adjust our operation further as needed.” United Airlines also confirmed that it had paused flights as of Thursday and would evaluate resumption “when it’s safe.”Delta Air Lines and United had already suspended their services to Tel Aviv earlier this month, after Israel launched air strikes on Iranian targets.

Aviation in Conflict Zones: A Troubling Precedent

The dangers of operating in volatile regions were highlighted by a tragic incident in late 2024, when an Azerbaijan Airlines passenger jet was hit, likely by a Russian surface-to-air missile, while approaching Grozny. The aircraft attempted to divert but ultimately crashed in Kazakhstan, killing 38 people. This followed the infamous 2014 downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17, which was shot down over eastern Ukraine by a Russian missile, killing 298 people.