Escalating conflict in the Middle East is causing significant disruption to global air travel and creating substantial financial headaches for airlines and travel agencies. A large portion of the region’s airspace has been closed following joint military operations launched on February 28, 2026, by the U.S. – dubbed ‘Operation Epic Fury’ – and Israel – ‘Operation Roaring Lion’ – against targets in Iran. Iran has responded with retaliatory strikes against U.S. Bases in neighboring countries and rocket attacks on Israel.
The closures, impacting the United Arab Emirates (including Dubai and Abu Dhabi), Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Iran, Israel, Iraq, and Jordan (with limited/unstable access), have led to tens of thousands of passengers stranded at major hubs like Dubai, Doha, and Istanbul. Emirates has suspended all operations to and from Dubai, although Qatar Airways has also halted flights due to the airspace closure. This disruption extends beyond those with final destinations in the region, affecting transit passengers connecting to destinations in Asia, Africa, and Australia.
KLM and Transavia have cancelled all flights to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Tel Aviv, and Amman, at least until March 7. While flights to long-haul destinations such as Bangkok, Singapore, and Jakarta are continuing, they are being rerouted to avoid the conflict zone, adding as much as two hours to flight times and potentially requiring fuel stops. Transavia had already proactively suspended flights to the region and does not anticipate resuming them in the near future. The situation is being legally classified as a case of *force majeure* – extraordinary circumstances – by airlines.
The impact is being felt by travelers and businesses alike. According to reports, some travel agencies have already incurred losses of €50,000. The disruption to flight paths over the Middle East is also impacting European connectivity to Asia, potentially affecting the region’s competitive position. As De Standaard reports, the loss of these routes is a concern for European businesses.
The Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs is actively assisting Dutch citizens in the region, acknowledging the uncertainty and unpredictability of the situation. The Ministry’s updates indicate that many Dutch nationals are affected, whether on vacation, business travel, or residing in impacted areas.
Passengers stranded in Doha and Abu Dhabi are facing significant delays and uncertainty. Volkskrant reports that thousands of travelers are currently stranded, with departures from these hubs impossible.
Reports from those on the ground describe a tense atmosphere. NOS News quotes individuals stranded in the region describing witnessing the trails of rockets, adding to the sense of alarm. Further details on the flight cancellations and airspace closures can be found here.
