Air France extends suspension of Tel Aviv, Beirut, Dubai and Riyadh flights to 5 March
By Matteo Floris
Last updated on 4 March 2026
Air France has prolonged its suspension of services to Tel Aviv, Beirut, Dubai and Riyadh through 5 March 2026 due to security concerns and widespread Middle Eastern airspace restrictions. The airline first halted these routes on 1 March 2026 following sudden airspace closures and is acting in coordination with French and European aviation authorities. Advisories from DGAC and EASA include avoiding Tehran and Baghdad FIRs and exercising caution in Damascus, Beirut and Tel Aviv FIRs. KLM separately paused Dammam, Dubai and Riyadh until 9 March.
All airlines
All countries
No Win, No Fee
Air France has extended the suspension of passenger services to four destinations in the Middle East—Tel Aviv, Beirut, Dubai and Riyadh—through 5 March 2026, inclusive. The airline cited heightened security concerns and significant operational constraints linked to widespread airspace restrictions in the region. This measure is being implemented in coordination with French and European aviation authorities.
The carrier initially announced on 1 March 2026 that flights to these destinations were suspended "until further notice" after large portions of Middle Eastern airspace were abruptly closed following U.S.–Israeli strikes on Iran and subsequent retaliatory actions. By 3 March 2026, Air France confirmed the suspension would continue at least through 5 March, emphasizing the priority of protecting passengers and crew.
Regulatory guidance referenced by the airline includes advisories from France’s Direction Générale de l’Aviation Civile (DGAC) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). These advisories instruct operators to avoid the Tehran and Baghdad flight information regions, and recommend exercising extreme caution within the Damascus, Beirut and Tel Aviv flight-information regions. In light of these directives and the dynamic security environment, Air France is maintaining its pause on services to the four listed destinations.
The broader operational context across the region remains fluid, with other carriers also adjusting their schedules. Within the same timeframe, KLM announced a longer suspension affecting Dammam, Dubai and Riyadh until 9 March 2026. These measures reflect the rapidly evolving conditions impacting air travel across multiple Middle Eastern air corridors.
Air France reiterates its commitment to safety and to working closely with national and European aviation authorities as it evaluates future operations. Passengers booked on affected services should be aware that flights to Tel Aviv, Beirut, Dubai and Riyadh remain suspended through 5 March 2026, inclusive, while the situation continues to be monitored by the airline and relevant authorities.
Know your rights
These are your air passenger rights:
When your flight's disrupted, you may be entitled to various forms of care and compensation under EC 261 and other applicable laws.
Rerouting or refund
If your flight is canceled, your airline must provide an alternative. You may also get a full refund if you no longer wish to travel.
Care and assistance
Your airline must provide food and refreshments if your journey is delayed more than a few hours.
Accommodation
If you are away from home and your journey is delayed overnight, the airline must offer you accommodation and transportation to it.
Communication
Under EC 261 you are entitled to 2 phone calls or emails if your journey is delayed over 1 hour.
No compensation when a disruption is caused by extraordinary circumstances, as this appears to be.
This advice is provided to help you if your flight is delayed or canceled. However, the exact care and compensation you are entitled to will depend on your specific circumstances and flight. Always follow the directions of your airline, particularly with regard to check-in and boarding times.
Quick facts
Disruption:
Cancellation
Cause:
Other
Compensation:
Not eligible for compensation
Status:
Current disruption
Start date:
2026-03-01
End date:
2026-03-05
Airlines affected:
Air France
Checked by:
Matteo Floris
Date updated:
4 March 2026
