Egypt instructs its airlines to avoid Iran’s airspace amid escalation with Israel

ISTANBUL

With the region on edge over a possible larger regional war, Egypt instructed its airlines to avoid Iran’s airspace for a three-hour period early Thursday, fearing that Iran might attack Israel.

The Wednesday notice of potential hazards along a flight route said the instruction would be effective from 4 to 7 am local time (0100-0400GMT).

“All Egyptian carriers shall avoid overflying Tehran. No flight plan will be accepted overflying such territory,” the notice said.

Later, Egypt’s Civil Aviation Ministry said it had received a notification from Iranian authorities concerning upcoming military exercises, and so issued a warning to all Egyptian airlines to avoid Iranian airspace on Wednesday and Thursday.

According to the announcement, the Wednesday military drills took place place 11.30 a.m.-2.30 p.m. Tehran local time (0830-1130GMT), and the Thursday drills are set for 4.30-7.30 am (0130-0430GMT).

“To ensure the safety of passengers and adhere to international safety standards, the Egyptian Civil Aviation Ministry has instructed all Egyptian airlines to avoid flying over Iranian airspace during these times,” said a ministry statement.

“This precautionary measure is aimed at preventing any potential risks to aviation safety during the (Iranian) military exercises,” it added.