Airlines Suspend Middle East Routes

Philippine Airlines Cancellations

Philippine Airlines has announced extensive flight cancellations to and from the Middle East as tensions in the region continue to escalate. As of Monday evening, March 9, 2026, the flag carrier has grounded multiple services connecting Manila with key destinations in the Gulf region. The suspended routes include the Manila-Doha corridor and connections to Riyadh and Dubai, affecting thousands of Filipino travelers.
  • PR 685: Doha to Manila
  • PR 684: Manila to Doha
  • PR 654/655: Manila to Riyadh and return
  • PR 658/659: Manila to Dubai and return

Other Carriers Affected

Several other international airlines have similarly announced suspensions of their services to the region. Qatar Airways and Gulf Air, both major carriers serving the Philippines, have joined Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific in canceling flights. The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) confirmed that multiple carriers have formally notified the agency about their decision to suspend operations to conflict-affected areas.

Impact on Filipino Travelers

Scope of Disruptions

The flight cancellations come as the ongoing strife in the Middle East shows no signs of abating. According to aviation authorities, affected routes have been suspended until at least March 16, 2026, though this timeline could be extended depending on how the situation develops. Travelers holding bookings on these routes face significant uncertainty about their travel plans. Passengers are strongly advised to monitor official airline announcements for the latest updates on flight status and rebooking options.

Alternative Arrangements

Airlines have urged passengers with existing reservations to contact their respective carriers directly for rebooking options or refund procedures. Many carriers are offering fee waivers for date changes to accommodate travelers who wish to reschedule their trips once services resume. Airport authorities are working closely with airlines to manage the influx of passengers seeking information and alternative travel arrangements.

Regional Aviation Advisory

CAAP Monitoring Situation

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines continues to monitor developments in the Middle East and coordinating with airlines regarding operational decisions. The agency has advised the traveling public to expect continued disruptions to flights serving the region. Aviation officials emphasize that passenger safety remains the top priority and that flight cancellations are being implemented in accordance with international aviation protocols and safety guidelines.

Looking Ahead

PAL has indicated it will provide updated lists of canceled flights as the situation evolves. The airline has committed to keeping passengers informed through official channels. Travelers planning trips to or from the Middle East in the coming weeks are encouraged to stay in contact with their airlines and check for updates before heading to the airport. The aviation industry remains on alert as regional tensions continue to affect air travel across multiple routes connecting Asia to the Middle East.