Global Carriers Halt Middle East Flights Amid Rising US-Iran Conflict Fears
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience.
Lufthansa, Air France, KLM, and other major airlines canceled weekend flights to Israel and Gulf states following a high-risk EASA advisory amid US-Iran tensions.
Key Takeaways
- •Major European and North American carriers, including Lufthansa, Air France, KLM, Swiss, United Airlines, and Air Canada, canceled flights to Israel, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia on January 23, 2026, due to escalating US-Iran tensions.
- •The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) issued a high-risk advisory for Iranian airspace, warning of an "increased likelihood of misidentification" of civilian aircraft by Iranian air defense systems.
- •The flight suspensions coincide with a major U.S. military buildup in the region, including the ordered deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group.
- •Airlines are rerouting flights to avoid Iranian and Iraqi airspace, leading to operational challenges like longer flight times and potential refuelling stops.
Major international carriers have abruptly suspended flights to key Middle East destinations. This action follows a sharp rise in geopolitical tensions across the region. Airlines including Lufthansa, Air France, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, and Swiss canceled Saturday services. Destinations affected include Israel, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Saudi Arabia.
North American carriers also took immediate steps. United Airlines and Air Canada both canceled their scheduled flights heading to Israel. These cancellations reflect growing fears of a military conflict involving the United States and Iran.
Aviation Safety and Regulatory Response
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) issued a high-risk advisory on January 16, 2026. The advisory urged airlines to avoid operating in Iranian airspace. EASA cited a “high risk” to civilian flights at all altitudes. This risk comes from the presence of advanced weapon systems.
The agency warned of an increased likelihood of misidentification. This is due to Iranian air defense forces being on a heightened state of alert. The advisory noted the potential for U.S. military action in the region. Many European carriers are now rerouting flights to avoid Iranian and Iraqi airspace. Some flights now require extra stops for fuel or crew changes.
Geopolitical Backdrop
The immediate cause for the cancellations is intense speculation about a potential U.S. strike targeting Iran. U.S. President Donald Trump renewed warnings to Tehran on Thursday. He spoke of a large naval “armada” heading toward Iran.
U.S. officials confirmed military assets are moving into the Middle East. The aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and guided-missile destroyers are expected to arrive soon. This deployment is meant to expand defense options for U.S. forces.
Historical Context of Tensions
This latest tension follows a period of conflict in June 2025. That month saw a 12-day war between Israel and Iran. During that conflict, the U.S. took direct military action. U.S. B-2 stealth bombers dropped GBU-57 "bunker-buster" bombs on Iranian nuclear facilities. Targets included the underground Fordow site. The current escalation places commercial aviation operators on high alert. They must prioritize passenger safety over maintaining regular schedules.
Get breaking commercial aviation news and expert airline analysis at flying.flights.
Written by Ujjwal Sukhwani
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience. Covers flight operations, safety regulations, and market trends with expert analysis.
Visit ProfileYou Might Also Like
Discover more aviation news based on similar topics
Canadian Airlines Resume Puerto Vallarta Flights Amid Security Concerns
Canadian carriers resumed flights to Puerto Vallarta after a temporary suspension due to regional violence, though some travelers have altered their plans.
National Aviation Strike Set to Disrupt Italian Air Travel on Feb 26
A 24-hour national aviation strike in Italy on Feb 26 will cause widespread flight cancellations, with ITA Airways grounding 55% of its scheduled service.
Delta Launches First Nonstop JFK-Malta Flights for Summer 2026
Delta Air Lines will launch its first nonstop service from JFK to Malta in June 2026, supported by a new Delta Vacations program for the destination.
Winter Storm Cancels Over 11,000 Flights in U.S. Northeast
A major winter storm in the U.S. Northeast forced airlines to cancel over 11,000 flights, grounding operations at major hubs like Boston and New York.
IndiGo Launches Belagavi-Navi Mumbai Flights from March 29
IndiGo will launch daily flights between Belagavi and Navi Mumbai from March 29, restoring a key regional route previously served by Star Air.
Canadian Airlines Resume Mexico Flights After Regional Violence Subsides
Canadian carriers resume flights to Puerto Vallarta as over 61,000 citizens register with Global Affairs Canada amid regional safety concerns.