European airlines won't be flying to the Middle East again until June
The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has officially extended its recommendations for airlines operating in the airspace of Middle Eastern countries through May 27.
The decision is due to the continued high level of tension in the region and the instability of the current security situation.
According to the updated guidelines, airlines are strongly advised to completely avoid flying in the airspace of Iran, Iraq, and Lebanon at all altitudes.
The risks to civil aviation in these areas remain critical, making safe flight operations impossible.
Regarding Israel, as well as a number of other countries, such as Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, Qatar, Oman, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia, the rules differ slightly.
In these sectors, pilots and operators are required to exercise extreme caution and take potential threats into account when planning flights.
EASA emphasizes the need for an up-to-date risk assessment and clear contingency plans in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Operators must monitor changes in regional airspace on a minute-by-minute basis and strictly adhere to the instructions of national aviation authorities.
The agency’s bulletin notes that despite a certain reduction in overall tensions, the stability of the ceasefire remains in question.
Any new escalation of the conflict could instantly turn these territories into a zone of immediate danger for passenger aircraft.
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