Berlin, Germany – In a further sign of escalating military tensions in the Middle East, the German Lufthansa Group and its subsidiary Austrian Airlines announced the suspension of their flights to and from the Iranian capital, Tehran. They also took precautionary measures to avoid flying over Iranian airspace altogether.
Details of flight suspension
According to a Lufthansa spokesperson quoted by Agence France-Presse, it has been officially decided not to operate any flights to and from Tehran until March 29, 2026. Flights will also be suspended until at least February 16, pending an assessment of the security situation.
Change routes and avoid Iranian airspace
Starting Tuesday, January 20, the group’s companies began implementing an alternative airspace plan and using Iraqi airspace as an alternative route for their flights in the region. They will also continue to prohibit flights over Iran to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.
Security context: American threats and European warnings
This decision comes in response to security pressures and fears of an imminent military confrontation. The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) advised all European airlines last Friday to avoid Iranian airspace due to the increased likelihood of attacks. Talk of a potential military escalation has also intensified following repeated statements by US President Donald Trump about the possibility of launching a military strike against Iran in support of the internal protests there.
