Key facts
- Major Gulf airlines are operating at 82% of their pre-conflict flight volumes.
- Gulf Air and Kuwait Airways have exceeded pre-war flight levels.
- Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad are operating near 90% of pre-war levels.
- An interim agreement between the U.S. and Iran to end hostilities has been signed.
- The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is reassessing its travel warning for the region.
Gulf airlines are experiencing a significant recovery in flight operations, nearing pre-conflict levels following an interim agreement between the U.S. and Iran to end hostilities. Data from Flightradar24.com indicates that overall flight numbers for major Gulf carriers have reached approximately 82% of pre-February 27 levels, with Gulf Air and Kuwait Airways even surpassing 100% of their pre-war volumes in recent days. Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad are operating at or near 90% of their pre-conflict capacity, a substantial rebound from lows of 40-50% just a month prior.
The resolution of the conflict is expected to lead to the full reopening of regional airspace, allowing carriers to resume normal operations. This development is crucial for the region's ambition to be a global transport hub and tourism destination, with significant investments made in infrastructure. However, safety concerns stemming from drone attacks had previously forced diversions and limited routes, leading European and Asian carriers to largely halt flights to the region. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is reassessing its conflict-zone warning, which remains in place until June 24, stating it is too early to determine if the de-escalation will lead to a sustained reduction in risks.
The fallout from the conflict has extended beyond the Gulf, impacting global air traffic through soaring jet fuel prices and schedule disruptions. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has nearly halved its 2026 profit forecast for the industry due to the Iran war, now expecting $23 billion in net profit, down from a previous projection of $41 billion.