US and Israeli strikes on Iran have disrupted flights to the Middle East and beyond, with regional airspaces beginning to close, stranding thousands of travelers around the world.
There are already disruptions in Canada after Air Canada canceled a flight to Dubai earlier Saturday following strikes in Iran and neighboring countries such as Bahrain, Qatar, Jordan and the United Arab Emirates.
In a statement on its website on Saturday, Air Canada said due to the “current military situation in the Middle East” all flights to and from Dubai (DXB) were suspended until March 3, while flights to Tel Aviv (TLV) were suspended until the 8th.
“If you are in either of these areas, please do not go to the airport. Your safety is our top priority,” the airline said.
Air Canada said it has revised its ticketing policy to allow changes without space clearance, a penalty for customers traveling on affected flights. Customers can withdraw their booking online to change their flight free of charge.
“If you purchased your ticket with Air Canada Vacations, please contact them directly,” the statement added.
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The airline said it is actively monitoring the situation in Dubai and Tel Aviv and will provide updates on rebooking options and next steps.
The airline noted that customers with upcoming flights can visit its website for updates.
Other flights departing from Canada may be delayed due to ongoing tensions in the Gulf region.
Toronto Pearson International Airport, Canada’s largest airport, said some flights were affected on Saturday.
“Airlines are adjusting routes and schedules in response, which may result in delays or cancellations,” the airport said in a statement.
“Passengers are advised to check their flight status directly with their airline before arriving at the airport.”
Israel, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar also closed their airspace on Saturday. Airspace in southern Syria was also closed.
Flights from Canada and around the world bound for cities such as Tel Aviv and Dubai were diverted or turned back to their departure airports early Saturday morning.
Dubai International Airport alone – the world’s busiest airport for international flights – reported more than 700 inbound and outbound flights cancelled. Flights at Dubai International and Dubai World Central-Al Maktoum International Airport on the outskirts of the Gulf city were grounded indefinitely, airport operators said.
The situation is changing fast and airlines are urging passengers to check their flight status online before heading to the airport.
Global Affairs Canada has updated its travel advisories for Canadians traveling to Gulf countries including Israel, Bahrain, Jordan, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, warning of “ongoing military activity” in the region.
– with files from the Associated Press
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(tags to translate)Iran(T)Iran Attack(T)Toronto Pearson Airport(T)US Iran(T)Canada(T)World
