Toronto ( Rajeev Sharma): Major international airlines have abruptly cancelled flights to the Middle East amid growing fears of a possible U.S. military strike on Iran, causing significant disruption for global travelers and raising safety concerns across key air routes.
On Saturday, European carriers Lufthansa, Air France, KLM, and Swiss International Air Lines announced the suspension of flights to destinations including Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia, citing volatile security conditions and the threat of potential missile or drone activity. In North America, United Airlines and Air Canada also cancelled flights to Tel Aviv, with both carriers pointing to evolving risks and the possibility of sudden airspace closures that could endanger civilian aircraft.
The cancellations, described by aviation officials as precautionary, follow heightened diplomatic and military activity in the region and come as intelligence assessments suggest an increased likelihood of escalation between the United States and Iran. Thousands of passengers have been affected, with airlines advising travelers to check for updates and prepare for further changes as developments unfold.
