Cathay Pacific suspends all Middle East operations after US-Israeli attack on Iran

Hong Kong's flagship carrier, Cathay Pacific Airways, made a significant operational decision on February 28, 2026, by suspending all its passenger and cargo flights to and from the Middle East. This drastic move was a direct response to major air strikes launched by the United States and Israel on targets across Iran, marking one of the most expansive direct attacks on the country in recent years. The Hong Kong government concurrently issued a fresh warning against travel to Iran, and the Airport Authority confirmed the immediate impact, with at least nine flights already cancelled or postponed. The airline stated that the safety of customers and crew guided the decision, and it is continuously monitoring the volatile situation while providing support to affected travelers.

The suspension encompasses Cathay Pacific's entire Middle Eastern network, including key passenger routes to major hubs like Dubai and Riyadh, as well as critical freighter services operating to and from Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai. This grounding reflects the severe and immediate risk assessment conducted by airlines in the wake of escalating military action, which threatens regional airspace safety. The incident underscores how geopolitical flashpoints can instantly disrupt global aviation logistics and passenger travel. For now, Cathay Pacific has not provided a timeline for resuming services, stating it will review the situation before recommencing flights to or over the region, and strongly advises all customers to check its official website for the latest information before heading to the airport.