Cathay Pacific suspends Middle East flights

Hong Kong-based Cathay Pacific has decided to suspend all passenger and cargo flights to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates and Riyadh in Saudi Arabia until April 30, 2026. The current volatile war situation and instability in the Middle East region, including Iran, due to American-Israeli joint attacks and related regional conflicts, have directly influenced this decision.

This suspension of flights, which previously began on February 28, 2026, had to be extended several times by the airline due to ongoing security concerns such as airspace restrictions, missile attacks, and unsafe conditions. According to the latest extension announced on March 18, 2026, all passenger services to Dubai and Riyadh, including Al Maktoum International Airport, and all cargo services via Cathay Cargo have been temporarily halted.

Considering the evolving situation in the Middle East region, Cathay Pacific stated that this step was taken until April 30 with the aim of providing some certainty to passengers and cargo customers amidst the prevailing uncertainty. They further emphasized that future changes to flight schedules may occur, prioritizing the safety of their customers and staff.

Passengers inconvenienced by this decision, who have booked flights from Hong Kong to the affected destinations until April 30, have been given the opportunity to change their travel dates, travel via an alternative destination, or receive a refund without paying additional fees. Under certain policies, this flexibility is also valid until May 31, 2026, and the airline requests passengers to visit its official website or contact customer support services for necessary assistance.

This airline, which served as a major link for business, tourism, and cargo operations between Asia and the Gulf region, reportedly operated almost daily flights to Dubai and several flights a week to Riyadh successfully before the suspension.

This situation is not limited to just one company; many companies in the global aviation sector are compelled to cut back their Middle East operations or alter flight routes due to conflicts. As a result, aircraft fuel prices have sometimes doubled, forcing many companies, including Cathay Pacific, to increase fuel surcharges. Furthermore, some airlines have taken steps to add extra flights to European destinations like London and Zurich to meet the demand from passengers bypassing Middle Eastern aviation hubs.

The ongoing war situation, disrupting regional airspaces, has necessitated changes in flight routes, posing a severe security risk for international flights. This clearly reflects the serious shocks that geopolitical tensions can inflict on the international travel and trade sectors, and Cathay Pacific is closely monitoring this. As the situation may change further, it is advisable for passengers to consult the official Cathay Pacific website or contact the airline directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.