The U.S. and Israel’s attack on Iran is disrupting flights across the Middle East and beyond, as regional airspaces began closing, leaving hundreds of travellers across the globe stranded.
Disruptions are already being felt in Canada as Air Canada cancelled a flight to Dubai earlier Saturday, hours after strikes in Iran and surrounding countries like Bahrain, Qatar, Jordan and the United Arab Emirates.
In a press release on its website Saturday, Air Canada said that due to “current military situation within the Middle East,” all flights to and from Dubai (DXB) are suspended until March 3, while flights to Tel Aviv (TLV) are suspended until the eighth.
“For those who are in either of those regions, please don’t head to the airport. Your safety is our top priority,” the airline said.
Air Canada said it has revised its ticketing policy to permit customers travelling on affected flights to make changes without penalty, space permitting. Customers can retrieve their booking online to alter their flight freed from charge.
“For those who purchased your ticket with Air Canada Vacations, please contact them directly,” the statement added.
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The airline said it’s actively monitoring the situation in Dubai and Tel Aviv and can provide updates on rebooking options and next steps.
The airline noted that customers with upcoming flights can visit its website for updates.
Other flights leaving Canada is also seeing delays because of ongoing tensions within the Gulf region.
Toronto Pearson International Airport, Canada’s largest airport, said some flights are being impacted Saturday.
“Airlines are adjusting routes and schedules in response, which can result in delays or cancellations,” the airport said in a press release.
“Passengers are advised to examine their flight status directly with their airline before coming to the airport.”
Israel, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar also closed their airspace on Saturday. Airspace in southern Syria was also closed.
Planes in Canada and across the globe that had been en path to cities like Tel Aviv and Dubai early Saturday were diverted or returned to their departure airports.
Dubai International Airport alone — the world’s busiest airport for international flights —reported greater than 700 inbound and outbound flights cancelled. The airport’s operator said flights were halted indefinitely at Dubai International and Dubai World Central—Al Maktoum International Airport on the Gulf city’s outskirts.
The situation is changing quickly and airlines urged passengers to examine their flight status online before heading to the airport.
Global Affairs Canada has also updated its travel advisories for Canadians travelling to and from Gulf nations, including Israel, Bahrain, Jordan, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, warning of “ongoing military activity” within the region.
– With files from The Associated Press
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