Islamabad, January 15 - Emirates flight EK325, operating from Seoul Incheon International Airport (ICN) to Dubai International Airport (DXB), experienced a significant disruption on January 14, 2026, when the aircraft turned around near the Iranian border. The Boeing 777-300ER, registered as A6-EPD, departed Seoul at approximately 10:34 PM local time, following its scheduled evening departure. As the flight approached the eastern edge of Iranian airspace over Turkmenistan in the early hours of January 15, 2026 (local time), it performed a sharp diversion, avoiding entry into the Tehran Flight Information Region amid sudden airspace restrictions.
The turnaround coincided with Iran's issuance of a NOTAM temporarily closing its airspace to most commercial flights, permitting only authorized international services to and from the country. This measure, implemented without a detailed public explanation, reflected heightened regional tensions and uncertainty in the Middle East. Airlines operating long-haul routes that typically transit Iranian airspace were forced to reroute or divert, prioritizing passenger safety and compliance with international aviation regulations. Flight tracking data highlighted the abrupt change in EK325's path as the aircraft began circling before reversing course.
Following the diversion, Emirates flight EK325 was redirected and ultimately diverted to Islamabad International Airport (ISB) in Pakistan. The decision ensured the safety of all passengers and crew on board the Boeing 777-300ER while the situation in the region remained under close monitoring. Such incidents underscore the challenges faced by international carriers navigating volatile geopolitical environments, where airspace closures can occur with minimal advance notice.
Emirates has not yet issued a detailed official statement regarding the specific circumstances of the EK325 diversion, though the airline continues to prioritize operational safety and passenger welfare. Travelers on affected routes are advised to check flight status updates directly through official channels for the latest information on Emirates flights to Dubai and other Middle East destinations. This event serves as a reminder of how regional developments can impact global aviation networks.
