Airspace closed as US, Israel launch strikes on Iran: What travellers need to know
Airlines reroute flights, Gulf hubs remain operational
DUBAI – Air travel across the Middle East has entered a new phase of disruption after the United States joined Israel in launching strikes on Iran on Saturday morning.
The escalation has triggered airspace closures, a nationwide state of emergency in Israel and immediate ripple effects for airlines operating through the region. For travellers in the Gulf and beyond, flight schedules are shifting rapidly as security developments unfold.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed that Israel carried out a pre-emptive strike on Iran and declared a state of emergency across the country, urging citizens to remain close to shelters. Sirens sounded nationwide as authorities issued alerts warning of potential retaliation.
US President Donald Trump confirmed that American forces had begun what he described as “major combat operations” in Iran, signalling direct US involvement in the unfolding military action.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 28, 2026
Airspace shutdown
Following the strikes, Israel closed its airspace to civilian flights. The transport ministry stated that a formal notice will be issued at least 24 hours before flight operations resume. Iran’s Civil Aviation Organisation also announced the closure of its airspace until further notice after explosions were reported in Tehran and other cities.
Airspace clearing after strikes by the United States and Israel in Iran. pic.twitter.com/Oub4T6SrkF
— Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) February 28, 2026
Iraq subsequently confirmed it had shut its airspace, further restricting a critical aviation corridor linking Europe, Asia and the Gulf. With Iranian airspace unavailable, airlines are being forced to reroute aircraft, adding flying time and operational costs.
The skies over Iran serve as a major overflight path for long-haul services between Europe and Asia. Previous closures in the region have led to widespread diversions and stranded passengers at key transit hubs such as Hamad International Airport.
Gulf connections
Major Gulf hubs including Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi remain operational. However, travellers should expect schedule adjustments as airlines avoid restricted airspace and reassess safety routes.
We guess that the passengers on flight FZ1449, Dubai - Salzburg, didn't expect to fly over Pakistan. pic.twitter.com/HHYEcgLahc
— Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) February 28, 2026
Governments including the United States, Germany, Canada, Australia, India, the United Kingdom and South Korea have issued advisories urging citizens to avoid travel to Iran. While there are no blanket bans on travel to Gulf states, the presence of US military forces in regional waters and the possibility of retaliation add a layer of uncertainty.
Embassies in parts of the region have also issued precautionary guidance. The US Embassy in Qatar has advised personnel and citizens to shelter in place until further notice.
What travellers should do
Passengers due to travel through the Gulf or wider Middle East should check flight status directly with their airline before leaving for the airport. Conditions are fluid, and schedules may change with little notice.
Flexible or refundable bookings are strongly recommended. Travellers should also review official government advisories immediately prior to departure and ensure travel insurance policies cover disruption linked to conflict or airspace closure.
Those currently abroad in affected countries are advised to monitor official announcements and airline communications. In Israel, authorities have urged the public not to travel to airports while airspace remains closed.