Over 700 flights cancelled across Gulf and Middle East countries as the US Iran war disrupts regional aviation.
DUBAI: Over 700 flights cancelled on Sunday as the ongoing US Iran war triggered widespread disruption across Gulf and Middle East airspace, according to aviation analytics company Cirium.
Data showed that out of 4,329 scheduled flights in the Middle East, 716 were officially cancelled on March 1, 2026, affecting multiple Gulf and regional carriers. The cancellations come amid heightened security concerns and temporary airspace restrictions introduced by several countries.
Airlines have been rerouting aircraft, delaying departures and suspending selected services as military activity continues in parts of the region. Major aviation hubs in the Gulf have issued travel advisories, urging passengers to check directly with airlines for the latest updates.
Industry analysts said the over 700 flights cancelled figure may rise as more airlines update their schedules throughout the day. The evolving security environment has forced carriers to reassess operational risks, particularly on routes passing through sensitive air corridors.
The disruption is expected to impact connecting passengers travelling between Europe, Asia and Africa, as Gulf airports serve as key transit hubs for international travel. Aviation authorities have emphasised that safety remains the top priority.
The over 700 flights cancelled highlight the immediate ripple effects of geopolitical tensions on global travel, with airlines closely monitoring developments before restoring normal operations.
