KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has resumed flights to parts of the Middle East, including Tel Aviv and Dubai, despite ongoing regional security concerns. The Dutch carrier resumed services on February 1 to Dubai and on February 2 to Tel Aviv with an adjusted schedule after a temporary suspension due to escalating geopolitical tensions. While several global airlines continue to avoid the region, KLM says updated safety assessments now allow limited operations to resume. The move highlights diverging strategies among airlines navigating ongoing instability across the Middle East.
Since late 2025, airlines worldwide have repeatedly adjusted Middle East schedules amid concerns over airspace security, missile activity, and regional spillover risks. Major hubs such as 
Dubai International Airport and Ben Gurion Airport have experienced fluctuating international connectivity as carriers reassess operational risk. While some airlines have cautiously returned, others have opted for extended suspensions well into 2026. KLM’s decision places it among a small group willing to re-enter the market under tightened safety protocols.
KLM Resumes Middle East Flights Amid Ongoing Regional Tensions
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According to NL Times, KLM officially resumed flights to the Middle East on February 1, following a suspension that began in January due to heightened regional tensions. The airline stated that its decision was based on updated intelligence, safety evaluations, and coordination with international aviation authorities. Flights are operating on adjusted schedules and may be subject to short-notice changes. KLM emphasized that crew safety and airspace risk assessments remain under continuous review.
Despite KLM’s return, many competing airlines continue to avoid the region entirely. Many American and European carriers, including 
American Airlines, 
British Airways, 
Iberia, and 
Lufthansa, have extended suspensions to Tel Aviv, Dubai, and nearby destinations. Several airlines have cited concerns over missile threats, drone activity, and unpredictable airspace closures. This divergence has led to uneven capacity and higher fares on the routes that remain operational.
The airline said the following in a January 31 update, as reported by NL Times:
“KLM always places the safety of passengers and staff first. Choosing safe and optimal routes is a core part of our daily operations.”
Why Many Airlines Continue To Suspend Services Over Safety Concerns
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The current wave of suspensions began after renewed fighting in Gaza, Iran protests, and broader regional instability and airspace closures amid US President Trump’s declarations, raising concern about civilian aviation safety. Airlines are particularly wary of operating near conflict zones following past incidents involving GPS interference and missile misidentification. Even when airports themselves remain secure, overflight risks across neighboring countries complicate route planning. As a result, many carriers have chosen caution over connectivity.
Dubai, normally one of the world’s most resilient global hubs, has also been affected by the uncertainty. According to CN Traveler, several airlines suspended services to Dubai not because the city was directly threatened, but because of concerns about the surrounding airspace. Long-haul routes passing over Iran, Iraq, or Syria have required significant rerouting. These detours increase fuel burn, crew duty times, and operational costs. For instance, Wizz Air was required to use Larnaca, Cyprus, several times as a technical stopover on its route between European cities and Abu Dhabi in late January to avoid Iraqi and Iranian airspace.
KLM’s decision reflects a broader European trend of cautiously reintroducing flights to the Middle East on a case-by-case basis. Unlike US carriers, some European airlines retain greater flexibility due to proximity and diversified routing options. However, even these airlines continue to rely heavily on real-time intelligence and government guidance. Industry analysts cited by CN Traveler stress that decisions can change rapidly if conditions deteriorate.
Related
How Airlines Are Avoiding War Zones As Tensions Mount
Several airlines have canceled flights or diverted routes as airspace closures have taken effect over parts of Israel, Iraq, and Jordan.
What This Means For Passengers And The Future Of Middle East Air Travel
Credit: Dubai International Airport
Passenger demand remains volatile as travelers weigh safety concerns against limited flight availability. Many passengers are booking refundable tickets or delaying travel plans altogether. Travel insurers have also updated their policies on coverage for conflict zones. This uncertainty has added pressure on airlines as they attempt to balance commercial viability with safety obligations.
Historically, Middle East air travel has proven resilient, rebounding quickly after periods of disruption. However, aviation experts note that prolonged instability could accelerate structural shifts in global route networks. Airlines may increasingly favor southern or western routings that bypass sensitive airspace entirely. For carriers like KLM, ongoing operations will depend on how regional tensions evolve in the coming weeks.
For now, KLM continues to advise passengers to monitor flight status closely and remain flexible with travel plans. The airline has pledged to suspend services again if safety conditions worsen. Meanwhile, rivals remain cautious, underscoring the fragmented recovery of Middle East aviation connectivity.