Air cargo operators continue to grapple with the fallout from escalating Middle East conflict, as airspace closures, route suspensions and grounded flights squeeze capacity across key corridors.
Following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran on 28 February and subsequent Iranian retaliation, airlines suspended operations over the weekend. The immediate result was a sharp reduction in cargo capacity and growing airport backlogs.
Seko Logistics said airlines have extended service suspensions into early March, with further extensions possible depending on regional developments.
Emirates SkyCargo has resumed a limited number of flights as of 2 March, prioritising the clearance of accumulated cargo. However, restrictions remain in place for new bookings, with only UAE-destined shipments potentially accepted subject to confirmation.
Qatar Airways Cargo confirmed that operations remain suspended pending reopening of Qatari airspace. Etihad Cargo cancelled scheduled commercial flights to and from Abu Dhabi until at least 5 March, though limited repositioning and cargo flights may operate subject to regulatory approvals.
Oman Air Cargo is working to reschedule affected shipments and plans to add bellyhold capacity on routes connecting Oman with the UK, Europe, India and Asia in the coming days.
Airports and capacity shock
Dubai Airports reported limited resumption of operations. Hamad International Airport in Doha suspended aircraft movements entirely due to airspace closure.
As of 2 March, Bahrain, Kuwait, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Oman and Qatar had closed airspace. Others—including Jordan, UAE, Syria and Saudi Arabia—implemented partial closures.
Data analysis firms highlighted the magnitude of disruption. Rotate estimated global air cargo capacity down 18%, while Aevean reported Asia–Middle East–Europe corridor capacity falling more than 40% week-on-week on certain routes.
Forwarders have warned customers of delays, rising costs and warehousing congestion. Rerouted flights are adding fuel consumption and transit time, while warehouses face mounting pressure—particularly concerning perishables, pharmaceuticals, electronics and e-commerce shipments.
