In response to escalating tensions in the Middle East, several airlines have opted to suspend flights to the region. This precaution follows military attacks on Iran by Israel and the United States, which occurred over the weekend. Emirates, a major airline based in Dubai, reported significant disruptions due to the closure of airspace in the United Arab Emirates, advising passengers to check their flight status online. KLM, the Dutch airline, also announced earlier in the week that it would halt flights to and from Tel Aviv starting Sunday in light of the heightened security risks.

Virgin Atlantic has joined this list by canceling its flight from Heathrow Airport in London to Dubai, also announcing plans to avoid Iraqi airspace. This adjustment means that travelers to popular destinations such as India, the Maldives, Dubai, and Riyadh may experience longer travel times as flights are rerouted. The airline has assured passengers that all flights would be supplied with sufficient fuel to accommodate any necessary detours, as they previously restricted their routes from entering Iranian airspace altogether.

The airlines’ decisions reflect a broader concern about safety in the Middle East, particularly given the recent military actions that heighten risks for air travel. As the situation continues to develop, affected airlines are closely monitoring conditions and adjusting their operations to ensure passenger safety while providing updated information on flight schedules.