Flights to and from the Middle East continue to face significant disruptions following recent escalations in the region, with initial impacts now being felt in Jordanian air traffic. The situation is creating challenges for travelers and impacting tourism in the United Arab Emirates.
ITA Airways has suspended flights to Dubai until March 4, 2026, according to recent announcements. This follows a broader pattern of flight cancellations and reroutings as airlines seek to avoid airspace over several countries. The disruptions come amid heightened tensions following an attack on Iran and subsequent regional instability.
Several airlines, including ITA Airways, Lufthansa, Air France, Swiss, Turkish Airlines, and Air India, have partially or fully suspended services to the affected areas. ITA Airways has canceled flights to and from Tel Aviv through March 7, 2026, including flight AZ809 scheduled for March 8. The airline is offering passengers the option of rebooking on alternative flights or receiving a full refund.
As of February 28, 2026, airlines are avoiding the airspace of Israel, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, and Iran. Lufthansa has also suspended flights to Tel Aviv, Beirut, Amman, Erbil, and Tehran until March 7, 2026, as well as to Dubai and Abu Dhabi until tomorrow. Turkish Airlines has canceled flights to Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Iran, and Jordan through March 2, 2026, with flights to Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman currently suspended for today only.
Wizzair has also suspended all flights to and from Israel, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Amman through March 7, 2026. The widespread cancellations are leaving travelers stranded and forcing many to alter their travel plans. The development underscores growing regional tensions and the potential for further disruptions to international travel.
Hotels in the Emirates are reportedly facing difficulties due to the cancellations, as fewer tourists are arriving. Passengers can find more information and options for rebooking or refunds through their respective airlines. ITA Airways continues to monitor the situation closely, prioritizing the safety of passengers and crew.
The situation is also impacting the energy market, with the OPEC+ group scheduled to meet to discuss a potential increase in oil production following the attack on Iran, according to reports from ANSA. Early reports indicate that Italian travelers are among those affected by the flight cancellations and disruptions.