Fresh travel warnings have been issued as escalating conflict in the Middle East continues to disrupt international aviation, leaving UK passengers facing cancellations and rapidly changing flight schedules.
On March 2, 2026, multiple departures from London Heathrow were grounded after airlines suspended service to several major Middle Eastern hubs amid widening airspace restrictions. Flights to Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Tel Aviv and Bahrain were among those affected, disrupting operations by carriers including Emirates, Etihad Airways, British Airways, Gulf Air and El Al.
Emirates said it has paused flights to and from Dubai until at least the afternoon of March 3, citing multiple regional airspace closures. Airlines are urging travelers to check flight status before heading to the airport, warning that further adjustments remain possible as security conditions evolve.
The travel disruption follows U.S. and Israeli military strikes on Iran, prompting missile exchanges and heightened security alerts across the region. UK authorities are advising nationals in affected areas to remain vigilant, monitor official travel guidance and maintain contact with consular services while aviation operations remain constrained.