Gulf airlines rebuild flight networks as regional air travel recovers

Major Gulf airlines are steadily restoring their operations after months of disruption caused by the Iran conflict.

Major Gulf airlines are steadily restoring their operations after months of disruption caused by the Iran conflict, with flight numbers now approaching the levels seen before the war began. The improvement comes as an interim agreement between the United States and Iran has raised hopes that stability could return to the region and allow airlines to fully resume normal services.

The Middle East is home to some of the world’s busiest international carriers, including Emirates, Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways. Their extensive networks were heavily affected by the conflict as missile and drone attacks forced repeated airspace closures, disrupted airport operations and limited airlines to a small number of safe flight routes. Carriers were forced to cancel flights, divert aircraft and redesign schedules, creating significant challenges for passengers and the aviation industry.

Recent data from Flightradar24 shows that overall flight activity by major Gulf airlines has recovered to around 82 percent of the level recorded before the conflict started in late February. Some airlines have already exceeded their previous operating levels. Gulf Air and Kuwait Airways have both recorded flight numbers above their pre war levels in recent days, while Emirates, Qatar Airways and Etihad have also made strong progress. Emirates has maintained a higher level of operations throughout the conflict after investing heavily to keep its services running, while Etihad and Qatar Airways have recovered sharply after operating at nearly half their normal capacity just a month ago.

The recent ceasefire agreement between Washington and Tehran has improved expectations for the aviation sector. Industry experts believe that if the agreement holds and regional tensions continue to ease, airlines will soon be able to restore their full schedules. The reopening of regional airspace would remove many of the restrictions that have complicated flight planning over recent months and allow Gulf carriers to return to their normal operating patterns.

Safety remains the aviation industry’s biggest concern despite the improving situation. Throughout the conflict, repeated drone attacks forced several flights to change course, increasing travel times and creating uncertainty for passengers and airline crews. Many international airlines from Europe and Asia continue to avoid the region, although some governments have started easing travel warnings. Australia recently relaxed its travel advice for several Middle Eastern countries, offering a positive signal for tourism and international travel.

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency has not yet lifted its warning for airlines operating in the region. Officials say it is still too early to determine whether the reduction in hostilities will lead to a lasting improvement in aviation safety. The agency plans to continue monitoring developments before making any changes to its guidance.

The recovery of Gulf aviation is important not only for airlines but also for the wider regional economy. Gulf countries have invested billions of dollars in recent years to establish themselves as global transport and tourism hubs through modern airports, luxury hotels and major international events. A return to normal flight operations is expected to strengthen tourism, trade and business travel across the region.

Airlines have also introduced measures to rebuild passenger confidence. Emirates has focused on reassuring travellers about the safety and reliability of its services, while Etihad has announced complimentary medical travel insurance for visitors travelling to Abu Dhabi during the second half of the year.

The impact of the conflict has extended far beyond the Middle East. Rising fuel prices increased operating costs for airlines worldwide, while flight disruptions affected schedules across Europe and Asia. Many carriers were forced to reposition aircraft and temporarily suspend routes. Reflecting these challenges, the International Air Transport Association recently lowered its profit forecast for the global airline industry, highlighting the significant financial impact the conflict has had on international aviation.