Home » AIRLINE NEWS » Passengers stranded in Turkey, Israel and Qatar Turkish, El Al and Qatar Airways face Multiple Cancellations and 120 Delays, disrupting travel in Istnabul, Doha, brussels and beyond
Published on
March 29, 2026
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Travel has been severely disrupted across multiple countries, with passengers stranded in Turkey, Israel, and Qatar due to a wave of multiple flight cancellations and 120 delays. Major carriers including Turkish Airlines, El Al, and Qatar Airways are at the heart of the issue, impacting flights from key airports such as Istanbul, Doha, Brussels, and several other international hubs. The total number of cancellations has reached 12, leaving many travelers stranded and scrambling for alternative options. These disruptions have caused widespread frustration, affecting passengers not only in the Middle East and Europe but also across global routes, with travelers facing significant delays and travel uncertainty.
Affected Airlines and AirportsTurkish Airlines Cancellations
Turkish Airlines has cancelled multiple flights from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International (SAW), one of the busiest airports in Turkey, affecting several European routes. Key flight cancellations include:
Flight THY3: Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen (SAW) to Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS), scheduled to depart at 02:10 PM +03.Flight THY67: Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen (SAW) to Brussels Airport (BRU), scheduled for 02:20 PM +03.Flight THY4: Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) to Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen (SAW), scheduled to depart at 05:55 PM CEST.Flight THY68: Brussels Airport (BRU) to Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen (SAW), departing at 05:55 PM CEST.
These cancellations have led to a major disruption for passengers travelling from Europe to Turkey. Many travellers have faced unexpected delays and had to rebook their flights or make alternative travel arrangements.
El Al Cancellations
El Al, Israel’s national airline, has also been impacted by cancellations. The affected flights include:
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Flight ELY69: Ben Gurion International (TLV) to Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), originally scheduled to depart at 11:40 AM IDT.Flight ELY1301: Ben Gurion International (TLV) to John F. Kennedy International (JFK), initially set for 06:10 AM IDT.
These cancellations, particularly for long-haul flights, have left passengers stranded at key international hubs. El Al, known for its high-security standards, has not reported any immediate safety issues but has encouraged passengers to stay in touch with the airline for updates.
Qatar Airways Cancellations
Qatar Airways, one of the world’s leading airlines, has also experienced a series of cancellations and delays across its routes. Affected flights include:
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Flight QTR604: Hamad International Airport (DOH) to Jinnah International Airport (KHI), scheduled for 09:10 AM +03.Flight QTR1398: Mohammed V International (CMN) to Hamad International Airport (DOH), with departures at 10:55 PM +01.Flight QTR1397: Mohammed V International (CMN) to Hamad International Airport (DOH), rescheduled for 10:55 PM +01.Flight QTR1397: Hamad International Airport (DOH) to Mohammed V International (CMN), set for 02:25 PM +03.
Several routes have been cancelled, disrupting business and leisure travel. As with Turkish Airlines and El Al, Qatar Airways has been forced to rebook passengers or offer refunds. Despite this, the airline has assured customers that safety remains a priority, and cancellations are being handled promptly.
Major Reasons Behind Flight Cancellations
Although specific reasons are not officially disclosed for every cancellation, weather-related disruptions and operational issues are the most likely causes. For instance, delays caused by adverse weather conditions are common in regions where airports experience fluctuating visibility and storms, especially in the fall and winter months. Furthermore, technical issues and logistical challenges are often cited as major reasons for flight disruptions, especially when airlines must deal with sudden changes in aircraft availability or technical maintenance.
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In many cases, airlines have opted to cancel flights instead of delaying them to ensure safety. By canceling flights, the airlines minimize the risk of further operational delays and maintain their commitment to passenger safety. This is a standard practice across the aviation industry, particularly when unforeseen factors affect flight schedules.
Affected Passengers and Their Safety
As with all flight disruptions, passenger safety remains a top priority for airlines like Turkish Airlines, El Al, and Qatar Airways. Affected passengers are urged to check with their respective airlines for rebooking options and possible accommodation arrangements. Airlines typically provide timely information through their customer service channels, including dedicated helplines, emails, and official apps.
In addition to offering flight rebooking services, these airlines also ensure that passenger safety protocols are followed during the entire process. As passengers wait for updated departure schedules, airlines strive to maintain high standards of care, ensuring passengers are well informed, comfortable, and safe.
Passengers who were affected by the cancellations should be aware of their rights. In many cases, airlines are legally required to offer compensation or alternative travel options. The European Union’s EC 261/2004 regulation, for instance, mandates compensation for significant delays or cancellations within EU airspace.
Essential Passenger Safety Tips During Flight Cancellations and Delays
During significant flight cancellations and delays, passengers should prioritize staying informed and ensuring their safety while waiting for alternative arrangements. First, always stay in touch with your airline through their official customer service channels, such as the website, mobile app, or helplines, to receive the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding your flight status. It’s important to keep your personal belongings safe at all times, especially in crowded airports, and remain aware of your surroundings. If your flight is significantly delayed or canceled, ask the airline for assistance with rebooking, accommodation, or meal vouchers if applicable. Additionally, if you’re stranded overnight, ensure that you stay in public areas of the airport or nearby accommodations and avoid leaving your bags unattended. If traveling with children or vulnerable passengers, always ensure that their well-being is prioritized and seek assistance from airline staff for additional support. Above all, remember to remain calm, as airlines and airport staff will work to resolve the situation and prioritize passenger safety.
Conclusion
The recent wave of flight cancellations affecting Turkish Airlines, El Al, and Qatar Airways has led to significant disruptions across major international routes. Affected airports include Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen, Ben Gurion, Hamad, and Jinnah, with passenger safety and care being the priority for the affected airlines. Although reasons behind the cancellations are still under review, weather and operational challenges are often the root causes.
For affected passengers, airlines are offering rebooking services and ensuring that the necessary safety protocols are in place. As travel demand continues to grow, especially in the holiday season, airlines must adapt to such operational disruptions by offering timely solutions and prioritizing passenger welfare.
Source: FlightAware
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