International Airlines Suspend Flights to Iran as Protests Enter Third Week

January 10, 2026

Several international airlines have suspended or cancelled flights to and from Iran as nationwide anti-government protests entered their third week, compounded by a near-total internet blackout and heightened security concerns.

The unrest, which began on December 28 over economic hardship, has continued despite a heavy security crackdown.

Rising Death Toll and Internet Shutdown

Human rights organisations estimate that between 45 and 100 people, including minors, have been killed so far. Authorities imposed widespread mobile and internet restrictions from January 8, severely limiting communication across the country.

UAE Airlines Suspend Iran Operations

UAE-based carriers were among the first to halt services.

Flydubai cancelled all scheduled flights to Iranian cities on January 9, including Tehran, Shiraz, Mashhad and Bandar Abbas.

Emirates suspended multiple services to Tehran and other destinations.

Etihad Airways also halted flights to Iran.

European and Regional Airlines Affected

Qatar Airways cancelled services between Doha and Tehran, while Turkish Airlines, AJet and Pegasus Airlines suspended or cancelled dozens of flights to Tehran, Tabriz, Mashhad, Isfahan and Shiraz.

In Europe, Austrian Airlines cancelled its Vienna–Tehran service, and Lufthansa said it is reviewing its plans to resume flights later this month.

Flight Resumptions Under Review

Austrian Airlines confirmed the cancellation of its January 9 Vienna–Tehran flight and said it is closely monitoring the situation. Lufthansa, which had earlier suspended its Tehran route due to regional security risks, had planned to resume operations on January 16, but that schedule is now uncertain.

Domestic Flights Continue Amid Airspace Restrictions

Iranian domestic carriers continue to operate within the country. However, Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization has issued airspace restrictions near sensitive areas.

Several governments have also warned airlines of elevated risks, with multiple Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs) indicating increased defensive measures across various regions of Iran.