According to international media reports, global oil prices have climbed sharply since the escalation of the conflict.
Justin Tallis/AFP
Rising tensions in the Middle East and the ongoing United States and Israel attacks on Iran have begun to affect global aviation, with airlines announcing fare increases and widespread flight disruptions as fuel prices surge.
According to international media reports, global oil prices have climbed sharply since the escalation of the conflict. As a result, jet fuel prices, which were previously estimated to be around USD 85 to USD 90 per barrel, have surged significantly in recent days, prompting several airlines to review their international fares.
Some international carriers have already announced price adjustments. Australia’s Qantas confirmed that it will increase international airfares in response to higher fuel costs, while other airlines such as Air New Zealand and Hong Kong Airlines are reportedly considering similar measures.
The conflict has also caused significant disruption to global air travel. Several countries across the Middle East, including Iran, Iraq, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, have temporarily restricted or closed portions of their airspace due to security concerns. These restrictions have forced airlines to cancel flights, reroute aircraft, or delay services across major international routes. Major aviation hubs in the Gulf, including Dubai and Doha, have been particularly affected.
Qatar Airways, one of the largest transit carriers connecting passengers between Asia, Europe, and the Americas, has announced that its regular flight operations remain temporarily suspended due to the closure of Qatari airspace. However, the airline has begun operating a limited number of flights through designated corridors after receiving temporary authorisation from the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority.
The airline confirmed that a restricted schedule of flights will operate to support passengers affected by the disruptions. As part of these efforts, Qatar Airways plans to operate 29 flights to and from Doha, including services to major cities such as London, New York, and Madrid.
Qatar Airways has also introduced flexible travel policies for passengers whose travel plans were affected by the crisis. Travellers with confirmed bookings between 28 February and 22 March 2026 are eligible for two complimentary date changes or a refund of the unused value of their tickets.
Other Gulf carriers, including Emirates and Etihad Airways, have also resumed limited operations while continuing to monitor the security situation. However, airline officials caution that flight schedules remain significantly reduced and that normal operations may take time to fully resume.
The tightening of airspace and ongoing security concerns have left thousands of passengers stranded worldwide or forced to miss connecting flights.
