Gulf airlines get back to business as flights near pre-war levels

Gulf airlines are back in business, with flights returning toward pre-war levels. Flightradar24 data show overall Gulf carrier flights at about 82% of the February 27 level, the day before the conflict began. Gulf Air and Kuwait Airways have topped 100% of that baseline in recent days, while Emirates, Qatar Airways and Etihad are at or near 90% of their pre-war volumes. Etihad and Qatar Airways were as low as 40-50% just a month ago as missiles and drones disrupted routes. Emirates, in particular, has remained higher for longer, hovering around the 86% level.

A tentative ceasefire and interim deal between the United States and Iran raised hopes for a fuller reopening of Gulf airspace, potentially accelerating a return to normal operations, according to aviation analysts. James Halstead of Aviation Strategy cautioned that it is still early to gauge sustained risk reductions. The recovery picture reflects ongoing safety concerns from drone and missile activity that previously forced diversions and limited routes. Emirates remains the largest carrier at about 86%, while Gulf Air and Etihad sit near 93%, and Kuwait Airways and Qatar Airways around 86% of February levels. A broader reopening would boost Gulf economies and tourism by restoring regional connectivity.