Airspace closures across seven Middle Eastern countries have forced cancellation of 500 flights from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (Dhaka airport) since February 28, disrupting thousands of passengers.

Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar and Jordan closed their airspace due to deteriorating regional security situation. Airlines operating routes through these countries suspended services immediately.

Flight cancellations began with 23 flights on February 28, surging to 46 on March 2 before gradually declining. Daily cancellations ranged between 25 and 40 flights throughout the period.

March 15 saw 23 additional cancellations affecting multiple carriers. Kuwait Airways cancelled 2 flights while Air Arabia operating from Sharjah suspended 2 services. Gulf Air from Bahrain and Emirates Airlines each cancelled 2 flights. Qatar Airways scrapped 4 flights alongside Jazeera Airways' 4 cancellations from Kuwait.

Flydubai cancelled 4 UAE-bound services while Biman Bangladesh Airlines suspended 1 flight. US-Bangla Airlines cancelled 2 services.

Breakdown shows highest cancellations occurred March 2 with 46 flights, followed by March 3 with 39 flights and March 1 with 40 flights. Cancellations stabilized around 25-28 daily flights by mid-March.

Airlines affected include major Gulf carriers serving Dhaka alongside Bangladeshi national and private operators. Routes to Dubai, Doha, Kuwait City, Bahrain and Sharjah faced severe disruptions.

Thousands of passengers experienced travel chaos during the period, particularly expatriate workers, business travellers and Umrah pilgrims. Airlines issued refunds and rescheduling options, though many passengers faced extended delays.

Aviation authorities continue monitoring regional situation for potential service resumption. Airlines await airspace reopening announcements from affected countries before confirming flight schedules.