Key facts
- EASA advised airlines to avoid operating over Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the UAE due to security risks.
- The agency cited the potential use of missiles, drones, and air-defense systems as a high risk to civilian flights.
- Similar guidance was previously issued for Iran, Iraq, and Lebanon.
- The advisories are based on information indicating heightened tensions and potential military actions in the region.
- Specific advisories cover the Persian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, and Lebanon's airspace with validity dates extending into July and August 2026.
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has issued an advisory recommending that airlines avoid operating over Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, citing heightened security risks. The agency stated that the potential use of missiles, drones, combat aircraft, and air-defense systems poses a significant danger to civilian flights in the region.
This advisory follows similar guidance issued last week for the airspace of Iran, Iraq, and Lebanon. A Conflict Zone Information Bulletin (CZIB-2026-03-R14), initially issued due to U.S. strikes in Iran and subsequent Iranian retaliation, has had its validity extended until July 8, 2026. This bulletin highlights ongoing high tensions, the potential for further military action, and increased risks of misidentification, particularly in and around the Strait of Hormuz.
Furthermore, the airspace over Iraq remains affected by recurrent Iranian strikes and operations by Iranian-backed militant groups. Despite a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, military activity continues to pose a risk to Lebanon's airspace. EASA has also issued a CZIB (2026-07) for the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman airspace, valid until July 29, 2026, and another (CZIB-2026-06) for Lebanon's airspace, valid until August 31, 2026.