Aussie travel plans left in the lurch as flights diverted due to temporary closure of Qatar airspace amid Middle East conflict
Australians' travel plans have been left in the lurch as flights to parts of the Middle East have been diverted due to the temporary closure of Qatari airspace following fresh Iranian strikes.
The temporary closure of Qatari airspace has thrown travel plans into chaos for people around the world including Australians due to suspended or diverted flights amid the Israel-Iran conflict.
The temporary closure of airspace on Monday followed a barrage of missiles fired by Iran on a United States base in Qatar in response to America's attack on three nuclear sites on the weekend.
While Qatari airspace has since reopened, Australian travellers are being warned of flight delays or service disruptions as the Israel-Iran conflict escalates.
A Virgin spokesperson confirmed two services operated by Qatar Airways had been diverted on Monday night on the way to Doha following the temporary closure of Qatar airspace.
VA1 travelling from Sydney to Doha was diverted to Bengaluru.
Meanwhile, Doha-bound flight VA15 from Brisbane was diverted to Muscat.
Virgin confirmed both aircraft landed safely.
Travellers with planned trips on Virgin services between Australia and Doha in the coming days are being urged to keep up to date with their flight information due to the Middle East conflict.
"Guest recovery is being coordinated by Qatar Airways, including support on the ground and assistance with onward travel arrangements," a Virgin spokesperson said.
"The safety and wellbeing of our people and customers is our number one priority.
"Guests scheduled to travel on Virgin Australia services between Australia and Doha in the coming days are advised to closely monitor their flight information. We thank all guests for their understanding." — Qatar Airways (@qatarairways) June 23, 2025
Qantas flights, including a service from Perth to Paris, were also impacted by the closure of airspace.
The airline confirmed Perth-Paris flight QF33 turned back to Western Australia, while London-bound service from Perth QF9 was also diverted to Singapore.
'We continue to monitor airspace availability closely and will alter our schedule as required," a Qantas spokesperson said.
'We thank our customers for their patience and understanding.'
Qatar Airways confirmed the reinstatement of its services about 12.20am on Tuesday following the temporary suspension of flights.
"Our focus at this time is to help our passengers return home or reach their onward journey safely and smoothly," a statement read on X.
"We've deployed extra ground staff at Hamad International Airport to support you as we resume operations."
Flights in and out of Dubai International Airport also temporarily ceased amid the closure of airspace.
Dubai Airports has warned travellers some flights may still experience delays or cancellations even though its operations have resumed in the United Arab Emirates.
"The safety and wellbeing of all travellers and aviation staff remain the highest priority," a statement read on X.
"While Dubai Airports is working with airlines to ensure flights operate according to schedule, some flights may experience delays or cancellations.
"Travellers are advised to stay informed by checking regularly with their airlines for the latest updates."
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