Flights to Iran Suspended as Protests, Internet Blackout and Security Risks Escalate

New Delhi: The situation around flights to Iran suspended has intensified as several international airlines halted or cancelled services to and from the country, with nationwide anti-government protests entering their third week. The disruption comes amid a near-total internet blackout, heightened security alerts and growing concerns among aviation authorities over operational safety. The unrest, which erupted on December 28 over economic grievances, has continued despite a heavy security clampdown, forcing airlines to reassess their exposure to the Iranian airspace.

Human rights organisations estimate that between 45 and 100 people, including minors, have been killed since the protests began. From January 8, Iranian authorities imposed sweeping mobile and internet restrictions, severely limiting communication across the country and complicating operational planning for airlines and foreign governments.

Flights to Iran Suspended as Gulf Carriers Cancel Services

UAE-based airlines have been among the first to suspend operations. flydubai cancelled all scheduled flights to Iranian cities on January 9, including services to Tehran, Shiraz, Mashhad and Bandar Abbas. Emirates also suspended multiple flights to Tehran and other destinations, while Etihad Airways halted its Iran-bound services amid rising security concerns.

Airlines cited operational risks, communication disruptions and uncertainty on the ground as key reasons behind the cancellations. The situation remains fluid, with carriers monitoring developments closely before making decisions on resuming flights.

Flights to Iran Suspended Across Europe and Turkey

Beyond the Gulf, multiple European and Turkish airlines have also scaled back or halted services. Qatar Airways cancelled flights between Doha and Tehran, while Turkish Airlines, AJet and Pegasus Airlines suspended or cancelled dozens of flights to Tehran, Tabriz, Mashhad, Isfahan and Shiraz.

In Europe, Austrian Airlines cancelled its Vienna–Tehran service scheduled for January 9, stating that it continues to closely monitor the evolving situation. Lufthansa, which had earlier suspended flights to Tehran due to regional security concerns, had planned to resume operations on January 16. However, that timeline is now under renewed uncertainty as unrest persists.

Airspace Restrictions and Safety Warnings Intensify

While international carriers have curtailed operations, Iranian domestic airlines continue to fly within the country. Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization has imposed airspace restrictions around sensitive locations, and multiple governments have issued advisories warning airlines of elevated risks.

A series of active Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs) issued in recent days point to increased defensive measures across several regions of Iran. Aviation experts say the combination of civil unrest, restricted communications and security alerts poses significant challenges for international carriers, making a swift resumption of services unlikely until conditions stabilise.