Finnair Cancels Doha and Dubai Flights Amid Middle East Airspace Concerns
Finnair has suspended flights to Doha and Dubai until 28 March as security conditions in the Middle East worsen. The airline said it is examining possible ways to return stranded customers safely, but the situation remains complex due to restricted airspace across the region. Flights to the two Gulf cities have been removed from the schedule while the airline continues monitoring developments.
The decision follows guidance from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which has advised European airlines not to use airspace across several countries in the region. These include Iran, Bahrain, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. According to Finnair, the restrictions make normal flight operations to the area currently impossible.
Current Situation Affecting Finnair Flights
- Flights to Dubai and Doha cancelled until 28 March
- EASA advises airlines to avoid airspace across multiple Middle Eastern countries
- Finnair exploring alternative ways to return customers
- Possible routing via Muscat in Oman with land transfer
One option under consideration involves flights to Muscat in Oman, followed by a land transfer from Dubai. Finnair says discussions are taking place with Finland’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs about possible assistance for Finnish citizens with border crossings and ground transport. Media reports indicate that the Oman border has been busy at times, with some travellers unable to cross.
While the situation continues to evolve, travel across the Gulf remains possible through other routes once passengers reach safer airports in the region. Muscat has been mentioned as a potential gateway outside the most restricted airspace. From there, connections may allow access to other parts of the Middle East or onward travel across Asia once flights resume.
"We do not compromise on flight safety. For example, yesterday some flights of Middle Eastern airlines to Dubai were turned away due to a missile attack. We understand that the situation is really distressing for our customers and their families, and we work hard to find a safe solution to get our customers home."
For now, passengers booked on affected services are encouraged to monitor updates through Finnair’s Manage Booking system. If replacement flights are cancelled due to the same conditions, customers can contact the airline again to arrange another routing. Those who booked hotel accommodation while waiting for new flights can request reimbursement through Finnair’s website.