Qatar Airways Suspends Doha Flights as Virgin Plane Returns to Perth Amid Iran Strikes
Flights to and from Doha have been disrupted, with Qatar Airways temporarily suspending all services and a Virgin Australia aircraft forced to turn back to Perth Airport. This follows the closure of Qatari airspace due to missile strikes in the Middle East, which occurred after the United States and Israel launched an attack on Iran on Saturday.
Airspace Closure and Flight Impacts
The airspace closure was implemented just hours after the missile attack, which escalated months of regional tension. In retaliation, Iran launched its first large-scale wave of missile and drone strikes towards Israel, further destabilizing the area. Perth Airport confirmed that Virgin flight VA21, which departed around 4:30 PM, turned back approximately an hour and a half into its journey due to the airspace restrictions.
Qatar Airways has announced a temporary suspension of all flights to and from Doha, citing the ongoing security situation. The airline is working with authorities to assist impacted passengers but warned that delays are expected once operations resume. Passengers affected by the closure are advised to contact their airlines directly for updates and rebooking options.
Travel Advisory Updates
A spokesperson for Perth Airport emphasized that flight decisions are made by airlines and recommended passengers check with their carriers and visit the Federal Government's Smartraveller website for the latest travel advice. Smartraveller has updated its warnings, placing Iran, Israel, and Lebanon on the 'Do Not Travel' list due to the deteriorating security conditions.
The advisory highlights risks such as armed conflict, civil unrest, terrorism, and ongoing military strikes and reprisal attacks. Travelers are urged to exercise extreme caution and stay informed about the volatile regional situation, which continues to affect air travel and safety in the Middle East.
