By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Hundreds of Nigerians were stranded on Saturday after airlines suspended flights from Nigeria to the Middle East due to escalating hostilities between Iran, Israel and the United States. The disruption followed missile strikes and airspace closures across Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Syria. Airlines halted operations to protect passengers and crew as military tensions intensified across the region.
Missile Strikes Trigger Regional Airspace Shutdown
Iran launched missile strikes targeting northern Israel and US military bases in Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and Iraq.
Syria closed parts of its southern airspace near the Israeli border for 12 hours. Kuwait also shut its skies temporarily and reported engaging incoming missiles.
Jordan’s Air Force conducted defensive drills to secure its airspace.
Russia’s aviation authority, Rosaviatsia, cancelled commercial flights to Israel and Iran until further notice.
Airlines Suspend Middle East Operations
Qatar Airways confirmed the temporary suspension of flights to and from Doha due to airspace closure.
Air India also suspended flights to all Middle East destinations, citing security concerns.
Other airlines, including Air France, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Lufthansa, Norwegian and Air Algérie, announced cancellations as tensions escalated.
On Saturday morning, outbound passengers from Nigeria scheduled to travel on Qatar Airways could not depart.
Airport officials asked some passengers who had boarded to disembark after reports confirmed Doha airspace closure.
One affected traveller expressed frustration over the sudden announcement. Another passenger worried about academic disruptions affecting a family member.
Nigerian Aviation Authorities React
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria acknowledged that the Middle East airspace closures disrupted international flights to and from Nigeria.
The authority confirmed delays and cancellations on routes linking Nigerian airports with Middle Eastern destinations.
FAAN advised passengers to maintain direct contact with airlines for updates and rebooking options.
It stated that it continues to monitor developments with relevant aviation authorities.
The Chairman of the International Airlines Operators Committee, Damilola Ogunyeye, described the situation as unfortunate. He stressed that safety remains aviation’s top priority.
Similarly, the President of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agents, Yinka Folami, confirmed that airlines turned passengers back due to security risks.
Federal Government Issues Travel Advisory
The Federal Government urged Nigerians in Iran and neighbouring Gulf countries to exercise caution.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed it is closely monitoring the evolving crisis.
Spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa advised Nigerians to avoid military sites and large gatherings.
The ministry also recommended restricting non-essential travel until stability returns.
Growing Anxiety Among Travellers
The Middle East airspace closures have increased anxiety among travellers and airline operators.
Passengers described the disruption as painful and financially stressful.
Many travellers now await updates as airlines reassess routes and security conditions.
Aviation experts say airlines will resume operations once authorities reopen affected airspaces and confirm safety conditions.
