Middle East airspace closes causing global travel chaos

Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha shut down as US strikes Iran

- SIMON CALDER HOLLY BANCROFT

Passengers have been plunged into travel chaos after the cancellation of flights between Western Europe and the Middle East after the US and Israel launched strikes on Iran.

The “major combat operation” confirmed by Donald Trump yesterday morning has had a devastating impact on flights in the region, as Iran and Iraq’s airspaces were closed due to the escalating action.

Until around 6am GMT yesterday, some planes were flying over Iran, mainly on north-south routes serving Dubai and other hubs. Such flights have now ended.

Dubai International Airport, the biggest global hub, has suspended flights. On a typical day, around a quarter of a million passengers fly in and out of “DXB”.

The main airline, Emirates, said: “Due to multiple regional airspace closures, Emirates has temporarily suspended operations to and from Dubai.

“We apologise to customers affected by disruptions for any inconvenience caused, and we are assisting them with rebooking, refunds, or alternative travel arrangements. The safety and security of our passengers and crew remain our highest priority.”

All other airlines are affected. British Airways passenger Mike Boreham was aboard flight BA108, preparing to depart from Dubai to Heathrow, when the captain announced airspace had closed.

“We were all boarded,” he told The Independent. “The flight is completely full. About 10 minutes after the ‘boarding complete’ announcement we were told airspace is closed.”