Airlines divert flights to avoid passing over the Middle East
Multiple airlines are turning around flights to avoid passing over the conflict zone in the Middle East.
Qatar closed its airspace for several hours due to the ongoing hostility, impacting at least seven flights from Australia on Tuesday morning.
This includes two Qantas flights — one to London and one to Perth — which have both been diverted.
Flight QFP from Perth to London has been diverted to Singapore while QF33 from Perth to Paris is returning to Perth.
It is understood both flights got as far as India before they turned around.
Two Virgin Australia flights have also been impacted.
Flight VA1 from Sydney to Doha was diverted to India and landed safely in Bengaluru, while VA15 from Brisbane to Doha has been diverted to Oman.
Qatar Airways temporarily suspended its flights due to the airspace closure, however flights are now resuming following the reopening of the airspace.
'Our focus at this time is to help our passengers return home or reach their onward journey safely and smoothly,' the airline said.
'We are working tirelessly with government stakeholders and the relevant authorities to restore operations as quickly as possible.
'We have also deployed additional ground staff at Hamad International Airport and other key airports to assist affected passengers by minimising disruptions and offering the utmost care and support to all customers.'
At this stage Abu Dhabi and Dubai airspace remains open.
Australians travelling to Europe or the Middle East have been urged to check in with their airline for updates.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong on Tuesday morning tweeted: 'There have been disruptions to flights with temporary airspace closures in the region.
'Closure of airspace around transit hubs may impact flights globally, causing delays and cancellations. Australians travelling should seek updates from their airlines and follow @Smartraveller.
'Australians in need of emergency consular assistance should contact the Australian government's 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre 1300 555 135 (within Australia) and +61 2 6261 3305 (from overseas).'
The United States entered the conflict between Israel and Iran over the weekend, with American warplanes and submarines targeting three Iranian facilities in Iran.
Iran retaliated on Monday local time, launching a missile strike against Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, which stations thousands of US troops.
Qatar confirmed the strike and said there were no casualties.
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