British Airways and Singapore Airlines have both suspended services to key destinations including Dubai, Doha and Bahrain, in response to increased security concerns after a recent US military strike on three nuclear sites in Iran.
British Airways has confirmed that several flights to Dubai were cancelled over the weekend.
Two aircraft were also diverted mid-flight – one returned to Heathrow after reaching Egyptian airspace, while another was rerouted to Zurich after entering Saudi airspace.
The airline has temporarily halted operations to Doha and Bahrain, citing operational constraints and regional airspace restrictions.
Singapore Airlines also cancelled two flights between Singapore and Dubai, cautioning that further disruptions may occur depending on how events unfold.
Travellers transiting through Changi Airport for connections to the Middle East have been advised to monitor flight schedules closely.
The disruptions come amid broader aviation concerns, with airlines continuing to avoid the airspace over Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Israel since missile strikes were launched on June 13.
Until recently, flights to major transit hubs such as the UAE and Qatar had remained largely unaffected.
Flight tracking data confirms a shift in flight paths, with carriers now taking longer routes over the Caspian Sea or southern corridors via Egypt and Saudi Arabia.
These diversions lead to increased fuel usage and longer journey times, potentially impacting connecting flights and travel costs.
Aviation advisory group Safe Airspace has warned that while no direct threats to civilian aircraft have been made, Iran’s statements about retaliation – whether direct or through regional proxy groups – have escalated the perceived risk, particularly for US-linked carriers.
The group also noted that the threat zone may extend to countries such as Saudi Arabia, Oman and the United Arab Emirates.
For Australians planning to travel to or through the region, experts recommend staying in close contact with airlines and checking for official government travel advisories.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Smartraveller website remains the most up-to-date source for travel safety information.
With oil prices also under pressure due to rising tensions, the broader impact on global aviation and long-haul travel corridors between Europe and Asia is likely to be significant.
