Flight Suspensions across GCC Amid Regional Tensions
Airlines and airports throughout the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) have announced the temporary suspension of flights to various destinations as tensions escalate between Israel and Iran. Nations including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman have released updated flight schedules reflecting this disruption, particularly affecting travel to Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, and Iran.
Saudi Arabia’s Travel Updates
Saudi Arabian airports and airlines have initiated alerts regarding potential travel disruptions. Passengers are encouraged to verify flight statuses with their respective airlines prior to arriving at the airport. Major airports, including Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, and Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah, have all communicated this guidance effectively.
In a recent social media announcement, authorities emphasized the importance of passenger safety, advising travelers intending to visit affected destinations to check for the latest flight information directly with airlines, in order to mitigate unexpected delays or cancellations.
Bahrain’s Flight Cancellations
In Bahrain, national carrier Gulf Air has confirmed the cancellation of all scheduled flights to and from Baghdad and Najaf in Iraq, as well as to Amman in Jordan, from June 14 to June 16, 2025. This decision, influenced by ongoing developments in the region, was made to prioritize the safety of passengers and crew alike.
Gulf Air remains vigilant, continuously monitoring the situation while expressing regret for any inconvenience caused. The airline is working in coordination with partners and stakeholders to assist rerouted passengers.
Qatar Airways Adjustments
Qatar Airways has also announced the suspension of flights to Iran, Iraq, and Syria, given the current regional instability. Flights are halted at several key airports throughout Iran, notably:
- Imam Khomeini Airport, Tehran
- Mashhad Airport, Mashhad
- Shiraz Airport, Shiraz
In Iraq, services to:
- Baghdad Airport
- Erbil Airport
- Basra Airport
- Sulaymaniyah Airport
- Najaf Airport
are also canceled. Additionally, flights to Damascus Airport in Syria will remain suspended until June 14. The airline urges passengers to consult its website for up-to-date flight statuses, reiterating its commitment to complying with international aviation safety regulations.
Oman Air’s Flight Modifications
Oman Air has announced cancellations for flights between Muscat and Amman, scheduled for June 13, 2025, and is rerouting flights coming to and from Europe. In their social media statement, the airline provided a clear outline of how they are aiding affected passengers, while also apologizing for any inconvenience.
Oman Air reassured that operations for other routes remain unaffected and the airline continues to monitor the situation carefully, promising updates as necessary.
Changes at Kuwait International Airport
At Kuwait International Airport, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation has indicated that some flights are being diverted, canceled, or rescheduled due to the current circumstances. The authority is actively coordinating with airlines to manage impacted flights coming into and out of the airport.
Jazeera Airways has declared a temporary suspension of all flights to and from Iran, with ongoing monitoring of the situation, pledging updates every 24 hours. Conversely, Kuwait Airways has reported that its flights are operating as scheduled, while keeping a close watch on developments.
Throughout these changes, airlines across the GCC are prioritizing passenger safety and aim to keep travelers informed about the evolving situation. For those planning to fly in the near future, checking with airlines directly will ensure up-to-date information and may help avoid unexpected travel disruptions during this turbulent time.
