News

Following the coordinated Israeli-U.S. air strikes on Iran, international airlines reacted immediately by scrapping air services to the region or canceling overflights on routes between Europe and the Far East with masses of air freight remaining at departure airports. Maritime shipping has also been similarly affected by the conflict, as Yemeni Houthi rebels have announced attacks on merchant ships in the Strait of Hormuz in support of the Iranian mullah regime.

Iran, Iraq, Israel, Syria, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates all announced at least partial closures of their skies in the hours after smoke began rising over Tehran and Iran began retaliatory attacks in the region. In Europe, Lufthansa cancelled its flights until 7^th March to several Middle East destinations, including Tel Aviv, Beirut, Amman, Erbil and Tehran, due to “severe security concerns.” Additionally, flights to and from Dubai and Abu Dhabi are also suspended. Carriers including KLM/Air France, Air India, Turkish Airlines, Norwegian, Air Algérie and ITA Airways also announced widespread cancellations.

Commercial shipping is also affected by the conflict. Ships already operating in the region are expected to seek refuge in the territorial waters of neutral states, including Oman. Some may opt to exit the area entirely. Meanwhile, vessels en route to the immediate conflict zone are likely to delay entry until the security situation stabilizes. The announced Houthi attacks on commercial ships increase the risk for shipping companies whose container ships operate in the Persian Gulf or neighboring waters, prompting immediate operational and insurance repercussions across the global maritime sector.

Airlines will be adjusting flight paths, with an increase of flight time and fuel costs. We expect booking lead times and air freight rates to increase.

On the ocean freight side, major carriers are shifting transshipments from for example Jebel Ali to Colombo, Singapore, the Mediterranean and Northern Europe hubs, impacting transit times.

In order to minimize disruption, we recommend that you share forecast volumes in advance for us to secure early bookings with air and ocean carriers.

We remain fully committed to supporting your Asia and Middle East shipments during this volatile period.