Amsterdam: Dutch airline KLM has decided to avoid flying over large parts of the Middle East because of rising tensions in the region. The airline said the move is a precaution to ensure passenger and crew safety and will remain in place until further notice.
KLM has suspended or rerouted flights that would normally pass through or land in areas such as Iran, Iraq and Israel. Some services to Gulf destinations, including cities in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, are also affected. Flights that continue to operate are taking longer routes to avoid high risk airspace.
The airline did not point to a single incident behind the decision. However, the move comes as concerns grow about a possible escalation between the United States and Iran. In recent days, the United States has sent additional military assets to the region, increasing fears of conflict that could endanger civilian aviation.
Other European airlines have taken similar steps. Air France has suspended some Middle East services, while several carriers have adjusted flight paths to avoid Iranian and Iraqi airspace. These actions show that airlines are treating the current situation as a serious safety risk.
Aviation experts say commercial aircraft can be vulnerable during military tensions, even if they are not directly involved in any conflict. Airlines often choose to avoid such areas after assessing threats to navigation systems and overall flight security.
Passengers travelling to or from the Middle East on KLM and other European airlines may face delays, longer travel times or cancellations. Airlines have advised customers to check flight status before travelling, as the situation remains uncertain and could change quickly.
For now, KLM says it will continue to monitor developments closely and will only resume normal routes when it believes the airspace is safe again.