Ethiopian Airlines Suspends Flights to Middle East Amid Safety Concerns
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — Ethiopian Airlines has announced a suspension of flights to various destinations in the Middle East due to an ongoing airspace crisis in the region. The airline confirmed these cancellations in an official statement, urging travelers to stay informed about their flight status.
Affected routes include cities such as Amman (Jordan), Beirut (Lebanon), Tel Aviv (Israel), Doha (Qatar), Kuwait City (Kuwait), Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi (all in the United Arab Emirates), as well as Dammam (Saudi Arabia). The suspension of these flights will continue until further notice.
In light of the cancellations, Ethiopian Airlines has urged passengers affected by this disruption to check their booking status through the airline’s official digital channels. This advice aims to help avoid any potential inconveniences for travelers.
Passengers are given multiple options due to the cancellations. They can either choose to rebook their flights for a later date, reroute their journeys to alternative nearby destinations, or request a full refund for any unused tickets. Those who booked directly with Ethiopian Airlines can manage their reservations through the airline’s Global Customer Interaction Center. Passengers who arranged their tickets through travel agencies are advised to reach out to their respective agents for guidance.
Ethiopian Airlines is actively monitoring the situation in the Middle East and has emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety and comfort of its passengers and crew during this turbulent time. The airline has expressed regret over the inconvenience caused and has thanked its customers for their understanding as the situation develops.
This announcement comes on the heels of an escalating security crisis in the region triggered by recent military operations involving the U.S. and Israel against Iran. Several countries across the Middle East have responded by closing or restricting their airspace, prompting major international airlines to suspend flights for the time being.
Reports indicate that at least one Ethiopian national was among the injured in the United Arab Emirates, where a recent series of missile and drone attacks prompted urgent defensive measures. The UAE Ministry of Defense reported that a total of 58 individuals sustained injuries, although specific details regarding nationalities of the victims have not been fully disclosed.
Since February 28, 2026, the UAE has claimed to have intercepted over 165 ballistic missiles, two cruise missiles, and numerous drones launched from Iran, intensifying the climate of uncertainty and fear in the region.
Travelers planning to visit these destinations are encouraged to stay vigilant and monitor updates from Ethiopian Airlines and relevant authorities as they navigate this precarious situation. The airline remains dedicated to providing customers with timely information and support during this challenging period.
Ethiopian Airlines has a long history of connecting Africa with the rest of the world, and its current predicament underscores the impact geopolitical tensions can have on global travel. As the situation in the Middle East continues to evolve, the airline is committed to taking all necessary measures to prioritize the safety and well-being of its passengers.
For the latest updates, travelers can check Ethiopian Airlines’ social media platforms or official websites.
— Reported by Nexio News
