US Airlines Cut Gulf Routes Amid Regional Tensions
American Airlines and United Airlines have suspended their Gulf routes due to escalating tensions in the Middle East. The move marks the first time major U.S. carriers have paused services to key transit hubs like Doha and Dubai, raising concerns among travelers and industry insiders.
American Airlines Suspends Philadelphia–Doha Route
American Airlines has suspended its daily flight from Philadelphia to Doha, Qatar. The last flight departed from Doha early Thursday, and service is paused until at least June 22. The decision follows a security advisory from the U.S. Embassy in Qatar, which urged American citizens to remain vigilant, avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, and keep a low profile.
In a statement, American Airlines said: 'We will continue to monitor the situation with safety and security top of mind and will adjust our operation further as needed.'
United Airlines Halts Newark–Dubai Service
United Airlines also announced it has paused its daily Newark–Dubai flights. The airline stated it would resume the service only 'when it's safe.' This follows earlier suspensions of Tel Aviv routes by both United and Delta, after Israel launched airstrikes against Iran earlier this month.
Major Hubs Affected for the First Time
This is the first time the aviation disruption caused by the Israel–Iran conflict has affected regional transit giants like Dubai and Doha. These hubs are vital for long-haul flights connecting the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
Air France-KLM and Air Canada have also canceled multiple flights to Gulf destinations this week, including Dubai and Riyadh, signaling a wider trend of caution among global carriers.
Airspace Disruptions Continue
Airspace closures reached a peak on Friday. Israel halted all overflights, and Iran temporarily shut down operations at Tehran's main airport. Other countries in the region, like Iraq, Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon, have been alternating between opening and closing their airspace as tensions evolve.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Embassy in Qatar reported temporary restrictions on access to Al Udeid Air Base, a key U.S. and allied military facility in the region.
What This Means for Travelers
If you're traveling to or through the Middle East in the coming weeks, be sure to double-check your flight status and monitor embassy advisories. Airlines are expected to resume services only when the regional situation stabilizes.
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