EU Aviation Watchdog Keeps Iran, Iraq Airspace Off Limits Until End of August

BRUSSELS, July 8: The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has extended its recommendation advising airlines not to operate in the airspace of Iran and Iraq until Aug. 31, citing ongoing regional tensions and the continuing risk of military escalation.

In an updated Conflict Zone Information Bulletin issued on Wednesday, EASA said the revised guidance replaces its previous advisory, which expired the same day.

The agency warned that the security situation in the region remains volatile, with the possibility of further military action posing a significant risk to civil aviation operating in or near the affected airspace.

The earlier advisory had also covered Lebanese airspace and urged airlines to exercise heightened caution when flying over or near several Gulf and Middle Eastern countries, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Israel, Jordan, Qatar, Oman, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.

The extension comes amid escalating military tensions across the region, prompting aviation authorities and airlines to continuously reassess flight routes to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.

EASA's advisories are intended to help commercial airlines conduct operational risk assessments when planning flights through conflict zones. While the guidance is not legally binding, it is widely followed by European carriers and often influences route planning by airlines worldwide.

Several international airlines have already rerouted or suspended flights over parts of the Middle East in recent weeks as regional security concerns continue to evolve.