Global aviation has been thrown into chaos after the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran on February 28, 2026, triggering retaliatory action and sweeping airspace closures across the Middle East. Iran, Iraq, Israel, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Jordan and the UAE temporarily shut their skies, disrupting some of the world’s busiest flight corridors. The fallout has been immediate.
Flights cancelled, grounding passengers across Asia, Europe and the Gulf. From long queues at terminals to jammed helplines, travellers are now dealing with sudden cancellations and asking one key question: what happens to their money?
AIRSPACE CLOSURES PARALYSE MAJOR HUBS
Key international hubs including Dubai International Airport, Abu Dhabi and Doha were forced to suspend operations as a safety measure. Dubai International, which handles around 100 million passengers annually, shut concourses and cleared terminals, stranding thousands overnight.
The closures sent ripple effects across Europe, India and long-haul routes, with airlines warning that disruptions could continue until at least March 2, and in some cases March 7.
AIRLINES GROUND SERVICES ACROSS REGIONS
A wide range of carriers halted or cut back services. Gulf airlines such as Emirates, Etihad, flydubai and Qatar Airways suspended flights to and from affected hubs. Indian carriers Air India and IndiGo cancelled Middle East services and select long-haul routes to Europe and the US.
European airlines including Air France and British Airways paused operations to destinations such as Dubai, Tel Aviv and Amman, while Turkish Airlines halted flights to Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria.
REFUND AND REBOOKING RULES EXPLAINED
With airlines cancelling flights due to airspace closures, these disruptions fall under force majeure. That means passengers are entitled to a full refund, free rebooking on a later date, or a travel voucher, depending on airline policy.
Extra compensation is usually not required. The key advice: do not cancel tickets yourself until the airline officially cancels the flight, as voluntary cancellations may attract charges.
Refund timelines vary. Credit card refunds typically take 7–14 working days, while bank transfers can take up to 21 days. Heavy call volumes and large-scale disruption may slow processing further.
WHAT DIFFERENT RULES SAY
Under US Department of Transportation rules, US airlines must issue prompt refunds, usually within seven days for card payments, when flights are cancelled. In Europe and the UK, EU261 or UK261 regulations require refunds or rebooking, along with meals or accommodation during long waits, though cash compensation is not mandatory in war-related disruptions.
In India, DGCA rules also require airlines to offer a full refund or alternative flight when services are cancelled by the carrier.
WHAT PASSENGERS SHOULD DO NOW
Passengers are advised to monitor airline apps and official websites, keep booking details updated and retain all emails and SMS alerts. Those who booked through agents should seek written confirmation of cancellations and refunds.
Travel insurance may help cover hotels or non-refundable bookings. With airspace restrictions still evolving, airlines warn that schedules may change at short notice.
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