Why Flydubai and Turkish Airlines Halted Flights to Iran Amid Blackouts and Protests?

January 10, 2026 at 06:27 PM•2 min read

Flydubai and Turkish Airlines halted flights to Iran citing safety and logistical disruptions due to severe internet blackouts and ongoing protests.

Key Points

1Over 50 international flights were cancelled by UAE, Turkish, and Qatari carriers on January 9-10, 2026, including all Flydubai services on Friday.
2The primary cause is a nationwide internet and mobile data blackout, which severely compromises ground coordination and aviation safety protocols.
3Turkish Airlines cancelled 17 scheduled flights, citing "regional developments in Iran" amid escalating anti-government protests.
4Airlines are adopting a cautious, day-by-day approach, monitoring the volatile situation before revising future flight schedules.

Major international carriers have suspended flights to Iran. This action follows a severe nationwide internet blackout and escalating anti-government protests. Airlines from the UAE, Turkey, and Qatar have cancelled services. They cite significant aviation safety concerns and operational challenges.

Operational Halt by Middle East Airlines

The widespread Iran flight cancellations began on Friday, January 9, 2026. UAE-based Flydubai cancelled all scheduled services to Iranian cities that day. Destinations included Tehran, Shiraz, and Mashhad. A Flydubai spokesperson confirmed the cancellations. The airline stated it would continue to monitor the situation closely.

Turkish Airlines also suspended a significant portion of its schedule. Turkish media reported that Turkish Airlines cancelled 17 flights. These flights were scheduled for Friday and Saturday. Other Turkish carriers, including AJet and Pegasus Airlines, also halted services.

Disruptions extended across the Gulf region. Qatar Airways cancelled services between Doha and Tehran. Other carriers like Emirates and Etihad Airways also suspended multiple services. These moves reflect a growing caution among Middle East airlines regarding the region's volatility.

The Impact of Iran Internet Blackout

The primary catalyst for the operational halts is the profound communication breakdown. Iranian authorities enforced a near-total digital blackout starting Thursday night. This action severed mobile and landline internet connections. The goal was reportedly to curb the coordination of mass demonstrations.

An Iran internet blackout severely compromises ground operations.

Airlines rely on stable communication for security protocols.
Ground teams cannot coordinate effectively with flight crews.
Managing passenger processing and emergency response becomes difficult.

Aviation experts note this creates a "high-risk" environment for international civil aviation. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) promotes global standards for safety. Such disruptions challenge the ability to meet these standards.

Heightened Security and Logistical Challenges

Protests began in late December 2025 over economic hardship. The unrest has since escalated across many Iranian provinces. The situation is further complicated by reports of heightened military readiness. Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs) were issued. These alerts cited the activation of air defense systems. This loss of real-time communication, combined with security alerts, raises logistical disruptions Iran faces.

While foreign carriers suspended flights, Iranian state carriers continued. Iran Air and Mahan Air maintained some domestic services. However, the lack of international connectivity isolates the country. Carriers are adopting a cautious, day-by-day approach. They are watching for security and operational clarity. For the latest commercial aviation news and updates, visit flying.flights.