UAE resumes air traffic after temporary airspace closure

International

Decision follows stabilization of situation and safety assessment by aviation authority

The United Arab Emirates has resumed air traffic in its airspace following a temporary full closure, according to the country’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA). The move comes after authorities confirmed that the situation had stabilized and operational and security conditions had been thoroughly assessed.

Airspace reopened after precautionary closure

The GCAA stated that the decision to reopen the airspace was taken in coordination with relevant authorities after ensuring that conditions allow for the safe resumption of flights. Real-time monitoring remains in place to maintain the highest levels of air navigation safety.

The authority also thanked passengers and airlines for their cooperation during the disruption and confirmed that operational teams remain fully prepared to respond to any further developments.

Closure linked to regional security concerns

The temporary shutdown of the UAE’s airspace had been introduced as an exceptional precautionary measure. Authorities acted after the Ministry of Defense reported intercepting missile and drone threats originating from Iran, aiming to safeguard flights, crews and national territory.

Escalating regional tensions impact aviation

The developments come amid escalating tensions in the region following joint military actions by Israel and the United States against Iran at the end of February. Iran has since responded with drone and missile strikes targeting multiple countries in the region, including Israel, Jordan, Iraq and Gulf states hosting US military assets.

These events have led to casualties, infrastructure damage and disruptions in global markets and aviation, underlining the sensitivity of air travel operations in the region.