02.03.2026 Update
Following the recent escalation in the Middle East, widespread airspace closures and operational restrictions are significantly affecting both air and ocean freight flows.
The current situation is to be considered a force majeure event, beyond the carriers’ control.
1. Air Freight
The closure of airspace in Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Israel, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and parts of the United Arab Emirates is causing extensive flight cancellations and diversions.
The main Gulf airlines (Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad) have suspended bookings and operations, both inbound and outbound, from key hubs such as Dubai (DXB), Abu Dhabi (AUH), Doha (DOH) and Manama (BAH).
Other European, Asian and American carriers are also implementing cancellations and rerouting.
As a result, air cargo capacity between Europe, Asia, Oceania and Africa is severely reduced, with longer transit times, missed connections and limited space availability.
Expected operational impacts:
• Missed connections
• Longer transit times
• Backlogs on priority cargo
• Limited space availability with continuous re‑planning
• Inability to predict available cargo space
• Constantly evolving rates, with short or no prior notice
2. Ocean Freight
The escalation has also created significant disruptions on major maritime routes.
Main carriers have suspended transits through the Strait of Hormuz, rerouting vessels via the Cape of Good Hope.
Transit through the Suez Canal is also suspended, as well as bookings toward the Middle East.
Expected operational impacts:
• Indeterminate delays at ports in the affected area
• Transit time extensions of at least 7–13 days on Asia–Europe routes
• Reduced global capacity and increased volatility in freight rates
3. Rail Freight
No impact has been reported at this time.
Our teams are actively managing the situation to minimize delays, despite the sudden global loss of cargo capacity and the emergency context, which continues to evolve.
We recommend reviewing insurance coverage, considering the force majeure nature of the event and the expected increases in war‑risk, bunker, congestion fee, fuel and emergency surcharges.
We will continue to closely monitor developments and keep you updated.
01.03.2026
Due to the current context of tensions in the Middle East, significant airspace restrictions and numerous flight cancellations by major airlines are being reported.
In this extremely complex scenario, we are unable to guarantee regular departures or reliable transit times for air shipments.
Our teams are constantly monitoring the evolution of events together with our local partners and the airlines, in order to provide you with timely updates and identify the most suitable operational solutions for your needs.
We will keep you informed of any relevant changes.