The flight cancellations come as hostilities between Israel and Iran intensify, raising security concerns across the region.
American Airlines and United Airlines have both suspended their only remaining passenger routes to the Middle East, citing security concerns amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran.
In a statement to The Epoch Times, American confirmed that it has paused its daily flight between Philadelphia and Doha, Qatar, until June 22 at least, effectively suspending all services to the Middle East. The move comes as tensions remain high in the region, after Israel’s June 13 air campaign against Iranian nuclear and military sites triggered a series of retaliatory drone and missile strikes by Iran.
“American Airlines has made adjustments to its Doha, Qatar (DOH) operation, temporarily suspending flights between DOH and Philadelphia (PHL) through Sunday, June 22,” the airline said in a June 19 emailed statement. “We will continue to monitor the situation with safety and security top of mind and make any additional adjustments as needed.”
Citing regional unrest, a spokesperson for United told The Epoch Times via email that its only active Middle East route has been suspended.
“Due to conflict in the region, United’s daily flights between Newark and Dubai (DXB) are paused,” the spokesperson said. “United will continue to monitor the situation and will work to assist our customers through this disruption.”
The cancellations follow a June 19 security alert issued by the U.S. Embassy in Qatar, warning Americans of elevated risks in the country and temporarily restricting access to the Al Udeid Air Base. Located southwest of Doha, the air base hosts more than 10,000 American troops, making it the largest U.S. military presence in the Middle East.
“Out of an abundance of caution and in light of ongoing regional hostilities, the U.S. Embassy has advised its personnel to exercise increased vigilance and has temporarily restricted access to Al Udeid Air Base,” the alert states. “We recommend that U.S. citizens in Qatar take similar precautions.”
The embassy advised Americans in Qatar to avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, steer clear of areas with heavy police presence, monitor local media, follow the instructions of local authorities, and maintain a low profile, especially in locations publicly associated with the United States.
By Tom Ozimek
