The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) advised airlines to continue steering clear of airspace over Iran, Iraq, and Lebanon amid ongoing instability in the Middle East. The warning comes despite the recent US-Iran framework agreement and a declared ceasefire, which EASA says remain fragile and subject to short-term violations, especially near the Strait of Hormuz [1, 2, 3].
EASA extended its conflict-zone advisory for the region until July 1, 2026, citing continued risks to flight safety. The agency noted that the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah is unstable, raising the possibility of renewed military operations affecting Lebanese airspace [1, 2, 3].
Beyond Iran, Iraq, and Lebanon, EASA urged operators to exercise caution when flying over Bahrain, Kuwait, Israel, Jordan, Qatar, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia. Airlines are advised to perform thorough risk assessments before operating in these neighboring countries’ airspace [1, 2, 3].
The agency highlighted the Strait of Hormuz as a particular area of concern where short-term ceasefire breaches could occur. EASA emphasized that while diplomatic progress has been made, the security environment remains volatile [1, 2, 3].
EASA's latest advisory on June 24 extended the conflict-zone warning until the beginning of July, maintaining its guidance for airlines to avoid specified high-risk zones for now [2]. Airlines and operators will continue to monitor the situation as July 1 approaches.
