American, United Halt Middle East Flights

American and United are suspending flights to the Middle East, citing ongoing regional instability and safety concerns.

American Halts Doha Route

American has confirmed the temporary suspension of its daily nonstop service between Philadelphia and Doha, Qatar. The final flight before the suspension operated earlier this week.

The airline stated that the route is expected to remain suspended until at least June 22, pending further evaluation of the situation in the region.

“We will continue to monitor the situation with safety and security top of mind and will adjust our operation further as needed,” an airline spokesperson told Bloomberg.

An American 787-9 (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)

The decision comes amid heightened tensions following recent military activity involving Iran and Israel, which has prompted airlines globally to reassess operations in and near the Middle East. American began its Philadelphia–Doha service in 2023, replacing its flights from New York-JFK.

United Suspends Newark–Dubai

United has also temporarily halted its flights between Newark, New Jersey, and Dubai. The airline did not provide a projected resumption date.

A spokesperson said the last scheduled flight – United 163 – operated from Dubai to Newark on Thursday morning.

United launched the Newark–Dubai route in 2023.

These suspensions by American and United add to a growing list of airlines adjusting operations amid airspace restrictions and security advisories in the Middle East. Several European and Middle Eastern carriers, including Lufthansa, Emirates, and Etihad, have modified or suspended select services in recent days.

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Ryan Ewing

Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.

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