At least 42 flights between Gulf states and Iranian cities were cancelled on Friday as unrest continued across Iran, according to airport and airline data. The Dubai Airports website showed that flydubai cancelled at least 17 scheduled services between Dubai and Iranian destinations including Tehran, Shiraz and Mashhad.
No official reason was given for the cancellations, but the disruptions coincided with a nationwide internet blackout in Iran that began on Thursday and extended into Friday. The outage followed intensifying anti-government demonstrations that have spread to multiple cities since late December.
Growing Unrest and Flight Disruptions
The protests, sparked by deepening economic hardship and high inflation, have prompted a heavy response from Iranian authorities. Communication restrictions and transportation delays have compounded the impact of the unrest, according to regional observers.
Flydubai did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The airline, which operates regular services to several Iranian destinations, has previously suspended flights during periods of heightened regional tension.
Turkey and Qatar Also Affected
Turkish media reported that Turkish Airlines cancelled 17 flights to and from Iran on Friday, while domestic carrier Ajet cancelled six flights. Budget airline Pegasus Airlines also suspended several of its scheduled routes to Iranian cities.
Meanwhile, Hamad International Airport in Doha showed that at least two flights between Qatar and Tehran were cancelled on Friday. Airport officials did not specify the cause of the cancellations, though regional aviation analysts linked them to uncertainty surrounding the situation in Iran.
Regional Impact and Broader Context
Air connectivity between Iran and neighbouring Gulf countries remains vital for business and travel, particularly as diplomatic and commercial relations have gradually improved since 2023. However, the latest wave of protests has raised renewed concerns about stability and safety in Iranian airspace, prompting airlines to exercise caution.
The developments follow a pattern seen during previous periods of unrest in Iran, when carriers temporarily scaled back operations citing security and communication disruptions. Industry sources said they were closely monitoring the situation and would adjust schedules as conditions evolve.
with inputs from Reuters
