El Al plane is seen at the Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv on December 31, 2022. (Photo by Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Airspace closures through the Middle East grounded and diverted flights on Saturday as Iran launched drones toward Israel.
United Airlines, which resumed service to Tel Aviv early last month after suspending Israel flights after the Hamas attacks in October, called off its Newark to Tel Aviv flight on Saturday after Israel closed its airspace. Jordan and Iraq had also closed their airspace, according to Jordanian state-owned media news outlet Al Mamlaka.
“We are closely monitoring the situation and will make decisions on upcoming flights with a focus on the safety of our customers and crews,” United said in a statement. The carrier is the only U.S. airline to have resumed service to Israel since October. Delta was scheduled to restart flights to Tel Aviv on June 7. American Airlines has not resumed Israel service.
United was also scheduled to fly from Washington Dulles International Airport to Amman, Jordan, at 10:30 p.m. Saturday night, but the flight will likely be canceled, according to a person familiar with the matter.
It was not clear when flights would resume.
Flight-tracking site Flightradar24 said multiple flights bound for Tel Aviv and Amman had diverted on Saturday.
Analysis:
The recent airspace closures due to Iran launching drones towards Israel have caused disruption in the region’s aviation industry. This event highlights the ongoing tensions in the Middle East and the potential risks faced by airlines operating in the area.
United Airlines, the only U.S. airline to have resumed service to Israel since the Hamas attacks in October, had to cancel its flights due to the airspace closure. This demonstrates the immediate impact on airline operations and the need for constant monitoring of the situation to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.
The closure not only affects flights to and from Israel but also impacts flights passing through the region. Jordan and Iraq also closed their airspace, reflecting the widespread concern over the situation. These airspace closures further amplify the challenges faced by airlines in conducting their operations smoothly.
The unpredictability of these events underscores the importance of airlines having contingency plans in place and closely coordinating with relevant authorities. It is crucial for airlines to prioritize the safety of their customers and crews and make informed decisions based on the latest intelligence and developments in the region.
Looking ahead, it is difficult to predict when flights will resume as the situation remains uncertain. However, this incident serves as a reminder that geopolitical tensions can have a significant impact on the aviation industry. Airlines may need to reassess their routes and implement stricter security measures to mitigate potential risks.
In recent years, the Middle East has faced numerous geopolitical challenges, including conflicts, terrorism, and territorial disputes. These ongoing issues highlight the need for airlines to constantly evaluate the security situation and adapt their operations accordingly.
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, events in one region can have ripple effects on industries across the globe. The aviation industry is particularly sensitive to geopolitical developments, as it relies on secure and accessible airspace to conduct its business.
In conclusion, the recent airspace closures in the Middle East due to Iran launching drones towards Israel have highlighted the challenges faced by airlines operating in a volatile geopolitical environment. It is necessary for airlines to have robust contingency plans and prioritize the safety of their customers and crews. As geopolitical tensions persist, the industry must remain vigilant and adaptable to ensure the smooth operation of global air travel.