Air France suspends Dubai flights; KLM halts Middle East operations
European carriers cite safety monitoring amid US naval deployments
DUBAI – Air travel between Europe and the Middle East has faced fresh disruption as Air France suspended its Dubai service and KLM halted multiple routes across the region.
The moves come amid heightened geopolitical uncertainty and increased military signalling in the Gulf.
Airlines said safety monitoring remains central as airspace risk assessments evolve in real time.
Dubai flights suspension
France’s national carrier confirmed it will temporarily stop flights to Dubai, citing the current situation in the Middle East. In a statement to AFP, the airline said it is continuously tracking developments in territories served and overflown by its aircraft to ensure the highest levels of safety and security. Air France added it is monitoring the situation in real time and will provide updates regarding its flight schedule.
The suspension highlights how quickly international carriers are adjusting operations as risk levels shift, particularly on long-haul routes linking Europe with the Gulf.
KLM halts Middle East flights
Dutch airline KLM also announced it had suspended flights until further notice to Tel Aviv, Dubai, Dammam and Riyadh. According to Dutch public broadcaster NOS, the airline will not operate through the airspace of Iraq, Iran, Israel and several Gulf countries. KLM did not publicly disclose a specific reason for the suspensions but said it is in contact with Dutch authorities.
The operational changes coincide with remarks from US President Donald Trump, who said a US “armada” of warships was heading towards the Gulf and that Washington was closely watching Iran. Although he downplayed the prospect of imminent military action, he confirmed continued military preparations, stating a large force was moving towards the region “just in case”.
Emirates flights to US cancelled
Separately, Emirates has cancelled several Dubai–United States flights due to severe winter weather. The Dubai-based airline said heavy snow, freezing rain and hazardous conditions linked to Storm Fern have disrupted operations across parts of the US, contributing to widespread airline cancellations and major travel delays.