Escalating Tensions in the Middle East: Flight Disruptions After Israeli Strikes on Iran

Context of the Conflict

On June 13, 2025, Israel initiated a military operation, codenamed "Rising Lion," targeting a number of strategic Iranian facilities. This operation marked a significant escalation in the ongoing tensions between the two countries, particularly concerning Iran’s nuclear capabilities and military infrastructure. Reports indicate that key facilities were targeted, resulting in the deaths of several top Iranian military commanders. In response, Iran closed its airspace, creating widespread disruptions in regional aviation.

Immediate Impact on UAE Flights

As the situation intensified, airlines operating out of the UAE—including Emirates, Etihad, flydubai, and Air Arabia—were forced to cancel and suspend flights to multiple destinations across the Middle East, Caucasus, and Central Asia. At least nine countries saw immediate flight disruptions: Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Israel, Russia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan.

Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) faced a significant number of cancellations and delays. Passengers were highly advised to check their flight statuses directly with their airlines due to the rapidly changing circumstances.

Overview of Cancellations

Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways was one of the first airlines to announce cancellations:

• Cancelled Flights (June 13):
  • EY595 / EY596 (Abu Dhabi → Tel Aviv → Abu Dhabi)
  • EY593 / EY594 (Abu Dhabi → Tel Aviv → Abu Dhabi)
  • EY597 / EY598 (Abu Dhabi → Tel Aviv → Abu Dhabi)

The airline also noted extended delays for flights like:

• EY590 (Amman → Abu Dhabi)

Emirates

Emirates Airlines reported extensive disruptions as well:

• Cancelled Flights (June 13):
  • EK945 / EK946 (Dubai → Basra → Dubai)
  • EK943 / EK944 (Dubai → Baghdad → Dubai)
  • EK979 / EK978 (Dubai → Tehran → Dubai)

Cancellations were also reported for flights to Amman and Beirut.

flydubai

The low-cost carrier flydubai confirmed that several of its flights were affected:
“Due to the temporary closure of Iranian and Israeli airspace, flights to Amman, Beirut, Damascus, Iran, and Israel have been suspended,” the airline stated. Several flights were cancelled or rerouted, always prioritizing passenger safety.

Air Arabia

Similarly, Air Arabia announced the suspension of operations to a wide list of destinations:

• Suspended Operations Include: Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Russia, Armenia, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Kazakhstan.

Rerouting and Delays

Flight disruptions extended beyond cancellations; many airlines were forced to reroute flights mid-journey. For example, an Emirates flight from Manchester was diverted to Istanbul, and a flydubai flight from Belgrade was redirected to Yerevan, Armenia. This mid-air decision-making underscores the dynamic nature of airspace management during heightened security concerns.

Official Advisories for Passengers

In light of these disruptions, UAE airport authorities and airlines issued crucial travel advisories for passengers:

1. Check Flight Status: Passengers are strongly encouraged to verify the latest status of their flights via official airline channels. Using third-party sources may yield outdated or inaccurate information.

2. Arrive Early: Due to increased congestion from rescheduling and delays, travellers should arrive well before their scheduled departure times to accommodate additional time required for check-ins and security.

3. Rebooking Options: All UAE airlines have activated customer support services for passengers affected by delays and cancellations. Rebooking options and refunds are being facilitated for impacted travellers.

4. Assistance Teams Deployed: Dubai Airports confirmed that Guest Ambassador teams are available across terminals at both DXB and DWC to help passengers navigate the evolving situation.

5. Stay Updated: Given the rapidly changing circumstances, passengers should closely monitor announcements from their airlines and airport authorities.

Broader Regional Effects

The Israeli strikes triggered immediate airspace closures not only in Iran but also led Iraq to temporarily halt operations at all its airports. Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv ceased operations "until further notice." The repercussions of these developments have affected not just direct routes but also created a ripple effect across international aviation.

As airlines continue to adjust their schedules and route offerings, the situation remains fluid. Authorities are working swiftly to manage the impacts of these military actions, ensuring the safety and welfare of all passengers involved in the escalating crisis.

This ongoing situation highlights the fragility of safety and stability in the region, as aviation becomes an essential marker of broader political tensions and military strategies.