Web Desk – Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Air travel across the Middle East has been significantly disrupted following Iranian strikes on US-linked installations, with airlines rerouting flights due to heightened security concerns, aviation sources said.
Several international carriers have reportedly avoided using the airspace of United Arab Emirates, opting instead for longer alternative routes. The shift has increased both travel duration and fuel costs for airlines operating in the region.
According to aviation officials, Pakistani flights are now bypassing Emirati airspace and instead using routes over Saudi Arabia. These flights are traveling through western and southern Saudi air corridors before reconnecting with traditional routes via Muscat.
The impact on flight times has been significant. Flights from Dammam to Islamabad are now taking approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes longer than usual. Similarly, routes from Dammam to Lahore and Multan have seen delays of up to 90 minutes.
Aviation experts say the rerouting reflects growing instability in regional airspace amid escalating geopolitical tensions. The developments are expected to increase operational costs for airlines and could eventually impact ticket prices for passengers.
