Airlines around the world are quickly changing flight routes after Iran launched a missile strike on a US military base in Qatar, sharply escalating tensions in the Middle East.
On Monday, over 20 commercial flights headed to Doha, Qatar were diverted, and at least four flights to Dubai, United Arab Emirates turned back, according to data from Cirium.
The popular flight tracking service Flightradar24 reported that UAE airspace had temporarily closed. Bahrain also shut down its airspace for a time.
According to NBC News, British Airways has announced that all flights to Doha will be canceled through Wednesday, affecting travel plans for many passengers.
"Safety is always our highest priority," the airline stated. "We are contacting our customers to advise them of their options and will keep the situation under review."
Several major airlines—like Air France, Finnair, and Iberia—have also temporarily paused or delayed flights to various destinations in the Middle East.
American Airlines had already stopped flying to Doha, and United Airlines also suspended its flights to Dubai. US airlines have also avoided Israeli airspace since a recent Israeli strike on Iran.
The rising conflict adds to existing travel risks already affecting air routes over Ukraine. Many airlines have had to adjust their paths to avoid dangerous zones, resulting in longer and more expensive flights.
Tensions in the #MiddleEast is affecting #airlines with #flight cancellations, diversions and temporary suspensions to top holiday, trade and transit points like Dubai, Qatar and Riyadh. The situation is fluid - check stayed with your #airline #IranIsraelConflict pic.twitter.com/QND7RP5sDb
— Rob Staines Travel Expert 🏳️🌈 (@RobTravelExpert) June 23, 2025
Qantas, Virgin Flights Diverted Amid Middle East Tensions
In Australia, two Qantas flights were affected early Tuesday. Flight QF9 from Perth to London was diverted to Singapore, while QF33 from Perth to Paris returned to its starting point. Both aircraft had reached Indian airspace before turning around.
Passengers were offered overnight accommodations. Qantas confirmed that other flights, including QF1 and QF2 from Singapore, remained on schedule, 7News said.
"We continue to monitor airspace availability closely and will alter our schedule as required," the airline said.
Virgin Australia also rerouted two flights. One flight from Sydney to Doha landed safely in Bengaluru, India, while another from Brisbane to Doha was diverted to Oman. The airline has since resumed normal operations to Doha.
Qatar Airways temporarily suspended flights but has since restarted service after reopening its airspace.
The airline said, "Our focus at this time is to help our passengers return home or reach their onward journey safely and smoothly."
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong advised travelers to stay updated through their airlines and Smartraveller alerts, warning that global disruptions may occur due to the airspace closures.
A missile strike recently hit Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, where US troops are stationed. Qatari officials confirmed the incident but assured that no one was hurt. The United States had recently joined the conflict, striking Iranian targets over the weekend.
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