FAAN issues travel advisory as flights face delays, cancellations over Middle East crisis

FAAN issues travel advisory as flights face delays, cancellations over Middle East crisis

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has issued a travel advisory to passengers following airspace restrictions in parts of the Middle East that have disrupted flight operations to and from the region.

In a statement released to journalists in Lagos on Saturday, FAAN said the development has led to flight cancellations, extended delays and schedule adjustments affecting passengers travelling through key Middle Eastern hubs.

According to the authority, several international airlines operating from Nigerian airports have been impacted by the temporary closure and restriction of airspace in parts of the Gulf region, forcing carriers to reroute flights or suspend services altogether.

FAAN urged passengers travelling to destinations in the Middle East or connecting through major hubs in the region to confirm their flight status with their respective airlines before heading to the airport.

“The situation is beyond the control of local airport authorities,” FAAN said, noting that the disruptions stem from geopolitical tensions that have prompted aviation regulators in affected countries to restrict access to their airspace as a safety precaution.

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The authority assured travellers that Nigerian airports remain fully operational and that it is working closely with airlines and other aviation stakeholders to minimise inconvenience to passengers.

FAAN also advised passengers to allow extra time for travel arrangements and to stay updated through official airline communication channels.

Airspace restrictions in the Middle East often have a ripple effect on global aviation due to the region’s strategic position as a major transit corridor linking Africa, Europe, Asia and North America. Airports in cities such as Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi serve as critical connecting hubs for thousands of Nigerian travellers daily.

Whenever geopolitical tensions escalate in the region, aviation authorities may temporarily close portions of airspace or impose routing limitations to ensure passenger safety.

Such measures typically result in longer flight times, operational costs for airlines and schedule disruptions worldwide.

For Nigeria, where a significant volume of international travel relies on Middle Eastern carriers, any restriction in that corridor can significantly impact passenger movement and cargo logistics.

FAAN issues travel advisory as flights face delays, cancellations over Middle East crisis