Diversions can significantly extend journey times for passengers.
Flights across the Middle East were forced to abandon their routes yesterday following a missile attack from Iran targeting Israel. As a result, the airspace over Iran, Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and surrounding regions was closed, prompting airlines to adjust their flight paths to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.
European leaders have condemned Iran’s actions, and tensions are mounting as the world watches for Israel’s response.
Which Airlines Diverted Flights to Avoid Middle Eastern Airspace?
A total of 81 flights were rerouted by 16 airlines on Tuesday.
As expected, Middle Eastern airlines accounted for the majority of diversions, with Qatar Airways and Emirates at the forefront. Istanbul Airport was particularly affected, with 19 flights redirected.
According to FlightRadar24, at least three flights operated by German airline Lufthansa heading to India and Dubai turned back before entering Iranian airspace, resulting in extended travel times of up to eight hours. Another flight operated by Swiss International Air Lines from Zurich to Dubai was diverted to Antalya, Turkey, just before it would have crossed into Iran, as indicated by FlightRadar24.
