Israel, Iran, Iraq Close Airspace Amid Missile Attack Escalation

Airspace over Israel, Iran, and much of Iraq remains closed following a surge in hostilities that began with an Israeli missile strike on targets in Iran on June 13. Iran’s retaliatory attacks led Israeli airlines to relocate aircraft abroad for safety.

While Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon initially suspended flights, they have since reopened their airspace. However, Israel’s airspace closure will stay in effect until at least June 17, with El Al Israel Airlines suspending flights until at least June 20, and some routes already paused through June 23. Arkia Israeli Airlines canceled all flights through June 21, while Israir continues to monitor the situation.

Tehran’s airspace remains closed until at least early June 17, while Iraq’s airspace is shut until June 16, except for limited southern routes. Iraqi Airways operates daytime flights from Basrah as Baghdad remains shut.

Jordan resumed flights on June 13 but requires inbound aircraft to carry extra fuel for possible diversions. Royal Jordanian, MEA – Middle East Airlines, and Syrianair are operating flights with rerouted paths to avoid restricted airspace.

Israeli carriers repositioned multiple aircraft to foreign airports. El Al diverted aircraft to Larnaca, Paphos, and Bucharest, while Arkia and Israir relocated fleets to Cyprus and Athens. Government aircraft, including Israel’s Boeing 767-300ER, also left Tel Aviv for Athens.

In Iran, Israel reportedly struck Tehran Mehrabad Airport and destroyed an Iranian Air Force tanker, likely a Boeing 707-300C or 747-100(SF), at Mashhad Airport, though aircraft damage at Mehrabad remains unconfirmed.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com