EASA Advises Airlines to Avoid Iran and Iraq

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has advised airlines to avoid Iranian and Iraqi airspace until 31 August. The recommendation cites ongoing security risks and the potential for further military escalation in the region. It replaces an earlier safety bulletin that also covered Lebanon.

In previous advisories, EASA also urged airlines to exercise increased caution when flying over Bahrain, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

The recommendation is due to remain in effect until the end of August, although EASA said it could be revised depending on developments in the regional security situation.

(Reuters, mja)