Flights between the UK and the Middle East have been disrupted after the United States launched military strikes on Iran. Airports in Dubai and Doha temporarily suspended services as regional tensions escalated.
Missile strikes have hit several Iranian cities. In response, Iran launched counterattacks targeting US military bases in Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE, Kuwait, and sites in Israel.
The UK Foreign Office has advised British nationals in affected countries to shelter in place immediately. It also warned against travel to Israel and Palestine.
A British Airways flight from London to Doha was forced to turn back mid-air, according to flight tracking data. London Heathrow confirmed that a small number of flights were delayed or cancelled and urged passengers travelling to the Middle East to check directly with their airlines.
British Airways cancelled flights to Tel Aviv and Bahrain through 3 March. It also suspended services to Amman, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Doha. The airline said affected customers can rebook their flights free of charge.
Heathrow’s departures board showed additional cancellations, including flights operated by Kuwait Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad.
London Gatwick also warned of expected disruption to Qatar Airways and Emirates flights.
The situation remains fluid as governments monitor developments and airlines adjust schedules to ensure passenger safety.
