Bahrain and Kuwait’s national carriers are recovering at the fastest pace, according to Reuters. Gulf Air and Kuwait Airways have already surpassed their pre-war levels. The market’s largest players—Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad Airways—have also significantly increased their operations, approaching 90% of their previous traffic volumes. By comparison, just a month ago, some airlines were operating only 40–50% of their usual schedules.
The announcement of a ceasefire agreement between the U.S. and Iran provided an additional positive signal for the industry. Market participants expect that this de-escalation will allow for the gradual restoration of full airspace operations in the region and reduce operational risks for carriers.
During the conflict, airlines were forced to regularly reroute flights due to the threat of drone attacks and restrictions on the use of certain air corridors. This led to longer flight times, higher fuel costs, and schedule disruptions not only in the Middle East but also in Europe and Asia.
Despite the improvement in the situation, aviation regulators remain cautious. The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has not yet lifted its recommendations restricting flights over certain areas of the Middle East, noting the need to ensure a sustained reduction in risks to civil aviation.
The resumption of air service is of strategic importance to the economies of the Gulf states, which in recent years have actively invested in the development of tourism, aviation infrastructure, and international transportation hubs. For airlines in the region, a return to full operations could become one of the key drivers of growth as early as the second half of the year.
