Wider War Effects Lead to Over 1,000 Flight Cancellations

Geopolitical conflict in the Middle East is causing a domino effect across various sectors, including the global aviation industry. Rising tensions have led several countries to close their airspace, triggering mass flight cancellations and disruptions to international travel.

Bangladesh’s civil aviation authority reported that a total of 1,060 flights to and from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka have been cancelled over a 44-day period since 28 February 2026. These cancellations began as the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran intensified, affecting regional security.

The closure of airspace by several Middle Eastern countries is the primary cause of these disruptions. Nations such as Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, and Jordan have halted flight operations due to unstable security conditions.

As a result, air connectivity between Dhaka and key Middle Eastern hubs has been severely disrupted. This region serves as a vital route for Bangladeshi migrant workers and transit passengers heading to various destinations.

According to The Daily Star on Tuesday, 14 April 2026, data shows that the number of flight cancellations has steadily increased over time. In the first 10 days of the crisis, 339 flights were cancelled. This figure rose by 275 cancellations between 10 and 19 March.

Subsequently, 226 flights were cancelled from 20 to 29 March, followed by 160 cancellations from 30 March to 8 April. In the most recent days, from 9 to 12 April, an additional 60 flights were cancelled, bringing the total to 1,060 affected flights.

This situation reflects the escalating crisis, which shows no signs of abating. Airlines face significant challenges in rescheduling and finding alternative routes, as many main pathways are impassable.

The conditions are also worsening passenger experiences. Many travellers have been forced to delay trips, lose connecting flights, and face uncertainty regarding new departure schedules.

On the other hand, the closure of airspace in this strategic region is adding pressure to the global aviation system. Airlines must reroute flights via longer paths, resulting in higher fuel costs and extended travel times.