Singapore Airlines (SIA) and its subsidiary Scoot, along with other carriers like Thai Airways and India Air, have rerouted their flights to avoid Iranian airspace amidst rising tensions in the Middle East. This adjustment, initiated on August 2nd, comes in the wake of incidents heightening the risk of regional conflict.
SIA has rerouted flights to several European cities such as Amsterdam, London, Paris, and Rome, and also to New York (JFK and Newark). Though flights remain on schedule, SIA advises passengers to expect slightly prolonged flight durations and assures support for any necessary travel adjustments.
Previously, in response to an alleged Israeli airstrike in Iran in April, SIA had avoided Iranian airspace for two months. The airline is once again taking similar precautions, joined by:
Thai Airways, which has ceased using Iranian airspace.
India Air, suspending flights to and from Tel Aviv until August 8th.
EVA Air and China Airlines, which appear to be avoiding the area according to flight tracking services.
The situation has escalated due to several sensitive incidents:
An Israeli airstrike in Beirut reportedly killed a senior Hezbollah commander.
The assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, with Israel also admitting to the killing of another Hamas leader, Mohammed Deif.
An Israeli strike in the Golan Heights killed 12, including children.
These incidents have led to increased threats from Iran and its allies, with Israel warning of severe consequences for any attacks.
Flight safety organization OpsGroup has advised airlines to steer clear of both Iranian and Iraqi airspace, citing risks from drones, missiles, and GPS spoofing.
Other global airlines have also taken measures:
Lufthansa, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and ITA Airways have suspended flights to Tel Aviv.
Canada has recommended its aircraft avoid Lebanese airspace for a month.
The UK has warned its pilots of potential dangers due to military activities in Lebanese airspace.
