Emirates airline cancels flights to Iraq, Iran and Jordan amid regional unrest

Dubai-based Emirates has suspended all flights to and from Iraq, Iran and Jordan for three days due to heightened regional unrest.

The cancellations affect flights to Basra and Baghdad in Iraq, Tehran in Iran, and Amman in Jordan on Oct. 4 and 5, with Thursday’s flights already halted.

Canceling all flights

In a statement, one of the Middle East’s largest airlines announced, “Emirates is canceling all flights to/from Iraq (Basra and Baghdad), Iran (Tehran), and Jordan (Amman) on 4th and 5th October due to regional unrest.”

This suspension follows earlier flight cancellations between Dubai and Beirut, with services to the Lebanese capital halted until Oct. 8. The airline said it made the decision in response to safety concerns amid rising tensions across the region. Other international carriers have also canceled or rescheduled flights to parts of the Middle East.

Impact on passengers and airline operations

The cancellations are expected to affect passengers traveling to or from the affected regions. Emirates has advised customers to check the airline’s website or contact customer service for further updates on flight status and rebooking options.

While Emirates has yet to provide an exact date for when services to Iraq, Iran and Jordan will resume, it indicated that flight operations will be reviewed based on security assessments and developments in the region.

Wider regional impact on air travel

Emirates is not alone in adjusting its flight schedules due to the recent unrest. Several other carriers, including major European and American airlines, have either suspended or rerouted flights across the Middle East, citing security risks.

The airline industry is closely monitoring the situation, with safety being the primary concern for passengers and crew operating in and around the affected countries.