Airlines Reroute Over Afghanistan Amid Middle East Tensions

Major airlines like Singapore Airlines, British Airways, and Lufthansa have resumed flights over Afghanistan due to increased risk in Middle Eastern airspace. This shift, driven by changing conflict zones and cost-saving measures, has raised safety concerns among pilots despite eased regulations by aviation authorities.

In a strategic shift, major airlines such as Singapore Airlines, British Airways, and Lufthansa have resumed flights over Afghanistan, deeming it a safer alternative amid ongoing Middle East conflicts. This development marks a significant change since airlines largely avoided Afghan airspace after the Taliban took control and halted air traffic services three years ago.

The decision stems from heightened risks in airspace between Iran and Israel, previously used after Russian skies closed to Western carriers following the Ukraine war in 2022. 'As conflicts evolve, airlines are continually re-evaluating airspace safety, and Afghanistan currently offers a safer route,' noted Ian Petchenik, spokesperson for flight tracking organization Flightradar24.

Flight data reveals a dramatic increase in overflights from carriers like Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, and British Airways, especially since mid-April amid escalated missile attacks between Iran and Israel. However, despite eased regulations enabling overflights by aviation authorities, pilots express concerns over flying through conflict zones with limited air traffic control.

(With inputs from agencies.)