World News
Middle East Airspace Closures Disrupt Travel Amid Israel-Iran Conflict
Hostilities intensified between the two nations following Israeli strikes on Iranian targets which started June 13, 2025.
The widespread airspace closures are driven by safety concerns as missiles and drones cross regional skies. This has severely disrupted Middle East air travel, stranding thousands and reshaping global flight routes.
Airspace Closures Across the Region
Israel’s Airspace Shutdown
Israel closed its airspace to civilian traffic on June 13, following its military strikes on Iran. Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv, a major hub, is now nearly empty, with thousands of Israeli travelers stranded abroad.
The Israel Airport Authority has promised six hours’ notice before reopening, but no firm date has been set. Israeli airlines like El Al, Israir, and Arkia have moved aircraft to safer locations abroad.
El Al, for instance, canceled flights to cities like Tokyo and Moscow until at least June 23, leaving passengers scrambling for alternatives.
Iran’s Complete Airspace Closure
Iran shut down its airspace entirely on June 13, with the closure extended until at least 3 p.m. local time on June 15, according to Iran’s Civil Aviation Organisation.
This has grounded flights at major airports like Tehran’s Imam Khomeini and Mehrabad. Travelers, such as Afghan businessman Aimal Hussein in Qom, are stuck with limited options.
While Iranian state media claim no aircraft damage at Mehrabad, reports suggest an Israeli strike targeted an air-to-air tanker at Mashhad airport, heightening tensions.
Iraq’s Strategic Closure
Iraq, caught between the conflict’s crossfire, closed all its airports and airspace. Israeli strikes reportedly used Iraqi airspace, and Iranian drones and missiles were intercepted over Iraq.
This closure has disrupted one of the world’s busiest air corridors, connecting Europe to the Gulf, forcing airlines to reroute flights and increasing travel times and costs.
Jordan’s On-and-Off Restrictions
Jordan’s airspace has faced repeated closures. It shut down on June 13, briefly reopened on June 14, closed again that night, and reopened by June 15 after security evaluations.
These short-term, tactical closures aim to protect civilian aviation from missile and drone threats. Jordan’s strategic location makes its airspace critical, and disruptions have ripple effects on regional travel.
Lebanon and Syria’s Challenges
Lebanon’s airspace and Beirut’s airport operations are heavily disrupted. Middle East Airlines (MEA) is seeking Iranian approval to resume limited flights to Tehran.
Syria, meanwhile, faces airspace restrictions, with airlines like MEA and Syrianair operating detoured flights to avoid conflict zones. These disruptions add complexity for travelers and airlines alike.
Global Airline Responses
Major airlines have canceled or rerouted flights to avoid the conflict zone. Emirates and Flydubai suspended flights to Iraq, Iran, Jordan, and Lebanon until June 22 or June 30.
Lufthansa halted services to Tel Aviv, Tehran, Amman, Beirut, Baghdad, Basra, and Erbil until July 31. Qatar Airways, Etihad, Air India, and EgyptAir have also adjusted schedules.
Rerouting via Saudi Arabia, Egypt, or Turkey has led to longer flights, higher fuel costs, and soaring ticket prices, impacting travelers globally.
Indian carriers like Air India and IndiGo face additional challenges. Pakistan’s airspace was closed to Indian flights since early 2025. With Iran, Iraq, and Jordan restricted, routes to Europe and North America are significantly longer.
This has caused delays, cancellations, and higher fares for passengers traveling from cities like London, Paris, and New York.
Why Are These Closures Happening?
The Israel-Iran conflict escalated with Israel’s surprise strikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites, prompting Iran to launch retaliatory drone and missile attacks.
The risk of stray projectiles and heightened military activity has made regional airspace unsafe for civilian flights.
Governments and aviation authorities are prioritizing safety, but the closures have created a domino effect, disrupting travel plans and global connectivity.
Impact on Travelers
The closures have stranded thousands, with many travelers unable to leave Iran or return home.
Airports in Tel Aviv, Tehran, Amman, Beirut, and Baghdad are either closed or operating minimally, leaving passengers to navigate cancellations and re-bookings.
The uncertainty around reopening dates—especially in Israel and Iran—adds to the frustration. For those planning travel, expect delays, higher costs, and limited options in the coming weeks.
If you’re affected, check with your airline for updates on flight status and rebooking options. Monitor government and aviation authority announcements for airspace reopening notices.
Consider alternative routes, though be prepared for longer travel times and higher costs. Travel insurance may help cover disruptions, so review your policy.
Looking Ahead
The Israel-Iran conflict shows no immediate signs of de-escalation, raising fears of a broader regional war. While Jordan has reopened its airspace, Israel and Iran’s skies remain closed, with no confirmed reopening dates.
The aviation industry faces ongoing challenges, from crew scheduling to fuel costs, which could keep fares high. Travelers should stay flexible, plan for contingencies, and follow updates closely.
In this volatile situation, safety remains the priority, but the cost to global travel is significant. For now, the Middle East’s skies remain a no-fly zone for many, with ripple effects felt worldwide.
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