New Delhi [India], June 21 : Gulf airlines are now returning to normal operations after months of disruption caused by the Iran conflict. Major carriers are steadily rebuilding schedules, restoring routes and bringing flight capacity closer to pre-crisis levels.
The conflict had triggered widespread airspace restrictions across parts of the Middle East which forced airlines to cancel flights, reroute aircraft and temporarily reduce operations.
Flight networks recover as tensions ease
The airline operations have witnessed a significant improvement in their operations as the US and Iran agreed to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) earlier this month.
On the other hand, Flight tracking data showed that major Gulf airlines have returned close to their earlier operating levels with carriers such as : Emirates, Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways operating at more than 90% of their pre-conflict levels.
Qatar Airways and Etihad reportedly dropped to around 40–50% of normal flight activity during the worst phase, while Emirates managed to maintain comparatively stronger operations.
From cancellations to restored connectivity
However, the impact of the conflict was felt far beyond the Gulf. Several airlines worldwide faced longer routes, higher fuel costs and schedule uncertainty as they avoided affected airspace. More than 1,800 flights were cancelled or rerouted during the initial disruption which affected hundreds of thousands of travellers.
Although, the Gulf region plays a crucial role in global aviation, connecting Asia, Europe and Africa through major hubs such as Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi. During the disruption, airlines were forced to rely on alternative flight paths, increasing travel times and operational expenses.
Losses due to Iran War
According to the IATA forecast released at its Annual General Meeting on June 6, airlines of the Middle East are expected to suffer a net loss of $4.3 billion this year and lose $21.40 per passenger flown.
Gulf Situation So Far
The temporary halt in war seems to be in a danger after Israel has launched military attacks on Lebanon, igniting the US and Iran both. After the Israeli attack on Lebanon, Iran has said that it will not sign any MoU until the attacks are stopped.
In the latest development, US Vice President JD Vance has landed in Switzerland to talk about the Lebanon issue and complete agreement by all the sides.
Experts are of the view that the normalisation of travel and business activities in the Gulf will largely depend on the direction of these talks.
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