Brussels, January 17 - The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has issued a stark advisory recommending that airlines operating under EU regulations avoid Iranian airspace entirely, citing significant safety risks to civil aviation. Released on January 16, 2026, the Conflict Zone Information Bulletin highlights the presence of advanced weapons systems, air-defense networks, and unpredictable responses that create a high risk for passenger flights at all altitudes and flight levels in the Tehran Flight Information Region (OIIX). This warning comes amid heightened regional tensions, including Tehran's crackdown on domestic protests and threats of potential U.S. military intervention, which have placed Iranian air defense forces on elevated alert status. The advisory underscores the increased chance of misidentification of civilian aircraft, a concern rooted in historical precedents that continue to influence aviation risk assessments.
The recommendation follows a brief but disruptive temporary closure of Iranian airspace earlier in the week, lasting nearly five hours, which prompted immediate cancellations, rerouting, and delays for numerous international carriers. Although authorities reopened the airspace shortly afterward, the underlying volatility persisted, prompting EASA to issue its formal guidance. Airlines are urged to prioritize passenger and crew safety by selecting alternative routes, even if they result in longer flight times and higher operational costs. This proactive stance reflects the agency's commitment to monitoring conflict zones and sharing critical information to mitigate threats to global air travel.
Major European carriers have already aligned with the advisory's spirit, continuing to bypass Iranian airspace despite its reopening. Flight tracking data shows operators rerouting services over Afghanistan, Central Asia, or other corridors to avoid the Tehran FIR, demonstrating a cautious approach informed by ongoing geopolitical uncertainties. The situation serves as a reminder of how swiftly regional instability can impact international aviation, forcing adjustments that affect schedules, fuel consumption, and connectivity between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
EASA has emphasized continuous monitoring of developments and encouraged operators to consult the latest aeronautical publications and the European Information Sharing Platform on Conflict Zones. While the advisory is not legally binding, it carries substantial weight for EU-based and authorized third-country operators, reinforcing the priority of risk mitigation in an era of unpredictable threats. As tensions evolve, aviation stakeholders remain vigilant, ensuring that safety considerations guide all decisions in this complex environment.
