How airlines are managing the risk of missile threats and airspace closures
Airlines left with fewer flight routes as global conflict zones expand
- Airlines are facing increased operational and financial burdens due to the rise in global conflict zones, including threats from missiles and airspace closures.
- Airspace closures around Russia, Ukraine, the Middle East, and parts of Africa are forcing airlines into expensive, last-minute re-routings.
- The Israeli-Palestinian conflict and drone activity near Russian airports have led to commercial flights sharing airspace with potential hazards, raising safety concerns.
- The downing of an Azerbaijan Airlines flight in Kazakhstan and a cargo plane in Sudan highlights the worst-case scenario of aircraft being hit by weaponry, prompting calls for better information sharing between governments.
- IATA emphasises the need for urgent global coordination to address conflict zone risks, as airlines navigate a patchwork of government notices and security advice, with flight crews retaining the right to refuse flights over unsafe airspace.