Situation Overview

Significant airspace closures and operational restrictions across Iran, Iraq, Israel, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and Syria, as well as partial limitations in other Gulf states, are currently disrupting the traditional Europe–Asia air freight corridor via the Gulf region.

Regular scheduled commercial services have not yet resumed. Limited repatriation and ad-hoc flights are operating under strict regulatory conditions.

Operational conditions remain highly volatile, with frequent regulatory updates and short-notice NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen) affecting flight scheduling and overall network stability.

Network & Market Impact

Operational Network Impact

• Rerouting of flights around conflict zones, resulting in:

- Reduced or total shift of payload capacity
- Lower aircraft rotation efficiency

• Suspension of technical stopovers in key Gulf hubs
• Extended flight routings leading to:

- Increased fuel consumption
- Higher operational complexity
- Elevated cost exposure

Regional & Global Effects

• Reduced long-haul cargo elasticity between Europe and Asia
• Congestion at alternative hubs, including:

- Istanbul
- Athens
- Cairo
- Johannesburg

• Increased rate volatility across the globe
• Potential upward pressure on fuel-related surcharges
• Carriers are rebalancing their networks, resulting in additional capacity tightening. Alternative gateways

Carrier-Specific Status

Lufthansa (LH)

• Suspended destinations and airspace (until 06 March):

- Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Larnaca (UAE, Cyprus)

• Suspended destinations and airspace (until 08 March):

- Tel Aviv, Beirut, Amman, Erbil, Dammam, Tehran
- Affected countries include Israel, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia (Dammam), Iran

• No bookings accepted for Tel Aviv, Beirut, Amman, Erbil, Dammam, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai (DXB/DWC) until 12 March 2026, 23:59 local time

Qatar Airways (QR)

• Scheduled operations temporarily suspended due to closure of Qatari airspace
• Resumption subject to announcement by Qatar Civil Aviation Authority
• Further update expected on 6 March by 09:00 Doha time

Emirates (EK)

• All scheduled flights to/from Dubai suspended until 04 March, 23:59 UAE local time

Etihad Airways (EY)

• Scheduled commercial flights to/from Abu Dhabi suspended until 05 March, 14:00 UAE local time

Cargolux (CV)

• Temporary suspension of all Middle East-bound freight acceptance
• Exception: Muscat (MCT)

Recommended Customer Actions 

In light of the current capacity constraints and operational volatility, the following measures are strongly recommended:

• Provide updated shipment forecasts to enable proactive capacity planning and space allocation
• Confirm bookings as early as possible, as rerouting and reduced aircraft rotations are limiting short-notice availability

F.H. Bertling Logistics supports you with On Board Courier services for shipments up to 60kg , Charter and Part Charter Options

• Review insurance coverage, including war-risk clauses, to ensure adequate protection
• Reassess safety stock levels, as extended or variable transit times may impact supply continuity

HOW CAN WE SUPPORT YOU?

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