Saudi-UAE Tensions Ground Flights at Aden International Airport Amid Airstrikes

Saudi warplanes have reportedly conducted strikes against forces in southern Yemen. These forces are backed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The strikes targeted the Southern Transitional Council (STC) in Hadramout governorate. This military escalation has quickly impacted commercial aviation operations.

Commercial Aviation Restrictions

Operations at Aden International Airport were suspended on Thursday. This followed new air travel restrictions. The STC-aligned Yemeni transport ministry reported the new measures. They claimed Saudi Arabia imposed inspection requirements. These measures mandate that flights from Aden must transit through Jeddah Airport for inspection. The restriction specifically targets routes between Aden and the UAE. The transport ministry denounced the new rules as "sudden procedures."

A spokesperson for the STC-aligned ministry later confirmed a significant response. All flights to and from the UAE were reportedly suspended. This suspension will last until Saudi Arabia reverses the new requirements. The ministry called the action an "air blockade." They stated the measures contradict international aviation law. The Saudi ambassador to Yemen added to the tension. He accused the STC head of blocking a Saudi mediation jet. The jet was not permitted to land in Aden.

Operational and Humanitarian Impact

The disruption at Aden International Airport is critical. The airport is a main gateway for southern Yemen. It serves routes primarily to Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Jordan. The suspension threatens both commercial and humanitarian flights. The halt creates significant uncertainty for travelers. It also raises concerns about the stability of the Gulf region air network. The STC transport ministry stressed the impact on citizens. They noted hardships for passengers, patients, and the elderly.

The ministry also argued the Saudi measures violate the regulations of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The Saudi-backed government, however, gave a conflicting account. They denied ordering a full shutdown of the airport. They stated that only "limited regulatory measures" were applied. These measures were described as part of de-escalation efforts.

Escalating Regional Tensions

The aviation crisis reflects a deeper rift between the Gulf powers. Saudi Arabia leads a coalition backing Yemen's internationally recognized government. The UAE supports the separatist STC. Tensions rose after STC forces moved into Hadramout and Mahra governorates. These areas border Saudi Arabia and contain oil-rich regions.

Saudi-led forces launched an operation to reclaim the seized areas. A separatist leader said the Saudi airstrikes followed the STC's refusal to withdraw. The STC spokesperson claimed the strikes caused fatalities. This claim could not be independently verified. A Saudi-backed governor called the STC claims "ridiculous." He insisted the operation was a "peaceful pre-emptive measure."

This military and political standoff has now directly affected air travel. The situation highlights the fragility of air links in conflict zones. Aviation stakeholders must monitor the situation closely for updates on flight status. For more information on global air transport, visit our commercial aviation news at flying.flights.

• Key Risk: The conflict is causing direct, immediate disruption to civilian air travel.
• Regulatory Challenge: Conflicting orders from rival authorities complicate air traffic control and safety.
• Geopolitical Impact: The dispute between Saudi Arabia and the UAE is fracturing the anti-Houthi coalition and destabilizing the regional air network.