Middle East warfare causes global air transport chaos, with many countries having limited capacity to evacuate their nationals.

date
05/03/2026
The 24-hour flight radar website, which provides real-time flight status, shows that most of the Middle East still maintains airspace closures or flight restrictions on the 4th. The suspension of most commercial flights in the Middle East has plunged global aviation transport into the "greatest chaos" since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many industry experts believe that even if the conflicting parties immediately declare a ceasefire, it will be difficult for flight schedules to return to normal right away, as airlines need time to reallocate aircraft and crew, establish flight schedules, and obtain safety flight permits. Due to a large number of people stranded in the Middle East, many countries are arranging charter flights or military aircraft to evacuate their nationals. Some countries, facing a large number of stranded nationals but limited transportation capacity, will prioritize the evacuation of women, children, the elderly, the sick, and the disabled. Currently, these evacuation charter flights primarily transport passengers from Oman, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia.