Air France Suspends Dubai Flights, KLM Halts Middle East Routes Amid Regional Tensions
European carriers pause services to Gulf and regional cities over security concerns.
Air France and KLM have suspended multiple Middle East flights, citing growing regional instability as geopolitical tensions continue to rise. The decision comes as international airlines reassess flight operations across the Gulf and surrounding airspace.
France’s national carrier Air France confirmed it has temporarily stopped service to Dubai, linking the move directly to the evolving security situation in the region.
"Due to the current situation in the Middle East, the company has decided to temporarily suspend its service to Dubai," the airline said in a statement.
The carrier added that it is "constantly monitoring the evolution of the geopolitical situation in the territories served and overflown by its aircraft" to ensure "the highest level of safety and security" for passengers and crew.
"Air France is monitoring the situation in real time and will provide further updates on its flight schedule," the airline said.
KLM halts multiple Middle East destinations
Dutch airline KLM also announced a suspension of flights to several Middle Eastern cities until further notice, according to the Netherlands’ public broadcaster NOS. The affected routes include Tel Aviv, Dubai, Dammam, and Riyadh.
KLM additionally said it will avoid flying through the airspace of Iraq, Iran, Israel, and several Gulf countries, a move that could result in longer flight routes and schedule disruptions.
The airline did not specify the exact reason behind the suspensions but confirmed it is coordinating closely with Dutch authorities, according to NOS.
US military movements raise regional concerns
The flight disruptions come as tensions between the United States and Iran continue to escalate. US President Donald Trump said on Thursday that Washington was deploying additional naval forces to the Gulf region.
"You know we have a lot of ships going that direction, just in case... We have a big force going toward Iran," Trump said.
While the White House recently suggested that Tehran had paused planned executions of protesters — temporarily easing fears of immediate military action — Trump confirmed that preparations remain ongoing.
The US president has repeatedly threatened strikes against Iran following the government’s crackdown on widespread protests across the country.
Airlines reassess Middle East airspace safety
The suspensions highlight growing concerns among international airlines over airspace safety, regional instability, and operational risk. Aviation analysts note that airlines typically take precautionary measures during periods of geopolitical volatility, especially when military movements increase in sensitive regions.
Further updates from Air France and KLM are expected as the situation in the Middle East continues to evolve.