British Airways and Singapore Airlines have suspended flights to and from Dubai following overnight US airstrikes on Iran, as airlines respond to the rapidly escalating security situation in the region.
The UK’s flag carrier cancelled two scheduled flights to Dubai and Doha, both set to depart from London Heathrow on Sunday afternoon. A BA spokesperson confirmed that no flights would operate to or from the Gulf states on Sunday, citing safety concerns.
“As a result of recent events, we have adjusted our flight schedule to ensure the safety of our customers and crew, which is always our top priority,” the spokesperson said. “We are contacting our customers to advise them of their options while we work through this developing situation.”
BA said it will reassess the situation over the next 24 hours and determine whether services can resume on Monday. In the meantime, passengers booked to travel between Heathrow and Doha or Dubai between Sunday and Tuesday may rebook their flights at no extra charge for travel up to July 6.
Singapore Airlines also announced the cancellation of two flights to and from Dubai on Sunday, following what it described as a security assessment of the geopolitical situation in the Middle East. The airline warned that further disruptions may occur and confirmed it would contact affected customers, who will be eligible for refunds.
“As the situation remains fluid, other SIA flights between Singapore and Dubai may be affected,” a statement read.
The flight suspensions come amid growing disruption to air travel across the Middle East. Airlines have already been rerouting flights to avoid areas affected by the conflict between Israel and Iran, which erupted on June 13. Data from Flightradar24 shows vast stretches of airspace over the region remain largely empty.
Restrictions on Western carriers using Russian airspace have further limited options, forcing long-haul flights to reroute over Turkey, the Caspian Sea, and Central Asia.
Earlier on Sunday, a British Airways flight en route from Chennai, India, to London turned back mid-flight following news of the US assault on Iran. The aircraft later refuelled and completed the journey safely.
Major US airlines, including Delta and United, also suspended flights to Israel last week and have since halted services to Dubai and Doha as tensions mount.
Dubai, one of the world’s most popular international travel hubs, is home to the world’s busiest airport by international passenger traffic. Dubai International Airport handles over 90 million passengers annually and serves as a major transit point for travellers heading between Europe, Asia, and beyond
