Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) said, several Middle Eastern countries temporarily closed airspace on February 28 following Israeli strikes on Iran, disrupting commercial flights and stranding passengers at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.

Muhammad Kawsar Mahmud, Public Relations Officer of CAAB informed this today through a press release.

Kuwait, Dubai and Qatar shut airspace after regional security risks escalated due to recent attacks. Civil aviation authorities in affected countries made decisions based on immediate safety concerns.

Several commercial flights on affected routes have been cancelled, delayed or rescheduled due to closures. Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport authorities issued urgent directives to all airlines operating Middle East routes.

Airlines must inform passengers about cancellations or delays through SMS, email and call centres in advance. Airline staff are required to remain present at airport to provide necessary information and guidance to stranded travellers.

Airport authorities stressed airlines must provide clear and coordinated information about rescheduled flights to avoid unnecessary passenger suffering. Passengers planning travel on affected routes are urged to contact airline offices or travel agencies immediately to verify flight status and take necessary measures.

HSIA authorities confirmed situation is being closely monitored. Officials requested coordinated cooperation from all stakeholders to ensure passenger safety and operational normalcy until further notice.

Directive emphasized passenger understanding and cooperation during disruption period. Airlines operating Dhaka-Middle East routes include Biman Bangladesh Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Kuwait Airways and several others serving thousands of Bangladeshi migrant workers and travellers daily.

Closure affects Bangladeshi passengers travelling for employment, business and religious purposes including Umrah pilgrims heading to Saudi Arabia through connecting flights via affected countries.