Middle East Conflict Disrupts Global Air Travel, Strands Thousands

Escalating tensions in the Middle East following strikes between the United States, Israel, and Iran have led to widespread airspace closures and significant disruptions to global air travel. Hundreds of thousands of travelers are stranded as major airlines suspend operations in the region.

Airspace Closures and Flight Cancellations

At least eight countries, including Iran, Israel, Iraq, Jordan, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates, have closed their airspace as of February 28, 2026, according to Al Jazeera. Syria has as well partially closed its airspace. These closures have forced airlines to cancel or divert flights, causing chaos for passengers worldwide.

Qatar Airways suspended all operations on Saturday, February 29, 2026, after Qatari airspace was closed, as reported by Qatar Airways. Emirates has also suspended all flights to and from Dubai, leaving passengers stranded globally, according to BBC News. Etihad Airways has suspended flights out of Abu Dhabi.

Impact on Travelers and Australian Citizens

Hundreds of thousands of travelers are affected by the disruptions, with significant impacts felt at major international hubs like Tel Aviv, Dubai, and Doha PBS NewsHour. Perth Airport has confirmed the cancellation of multiple flights since Saturday, February 29, 2026, including services to Doha and Dubai.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong stated that approximately 115,000 Australians are believed to be in the Middle East and has urged them to check their travel insurance for coverage PBS NewsHour. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has activated its 24/7 Crisis Centre to provide consular support.

Travel Advisories

Australia’s Smartraveller website has issued a ‘Do Not Travel’ advisory for Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Lebanon, Yemen, Syria, Palestine, Bahrain, and Kuwait. Travelers are also advised to reconsider the need to travel to Jordan, Oman, and Saudi Arabia PBS NewsHour. Those with travel plans to or through the Middle East have been warned they may be unable to leave if the conflict escalates.

Flight Cancellation List (Perth Airport)

• February 28, 2026: VA021 Perth – Doha, QR901 Perth – Doha, EK421 Perth – Dubai
• March 1, 2026: VA022 Doha – Perth, VA021 Perth – Doha, EK420 Dubai – Perth, EK421 Perth – Dubai, QR900 Doha – Perth, QR901 Perth – Doha
• March 2, 2026: VA022 Doha – Perth, VA021 Perth – Doha, EK420 Dubai – Perth, EK421 Perth – Dubai, QR900 Doha – Perth, QR901 Perth – Doha

Ongoing Situation

The situation remains fluid, and further disruptions are expected in the coming days. Passengers are advised to contact their airlines for the latest information and to monitor travel advisories from their respective governments.