Airfreight restrictions – Middle East

Status: April 2026

Dear Valued Customer,

Due to ongoing regional developments and heightened security measures, airfreight operations to and within the Middle East are currently subject to restrictions and limitations. Availability may vary by destination and airline and can change at short notice.

Destinations Currently Not Accepting Airfreight
Airfreight services are currently unavailable (import, export and transit) to and from the following destinations:

  • Iran – Airspace closed and comprehensive international sanctions remain in force
  • Iraq – Civil airspace closed for international operations
  • Yemen – No commercial airfreight services due to security conditions
  • Kuwait – Temporary airspace closure affecting most civilian flights

What does it mean for you?
Shipments to these destinations cannot be accepted until further notice.

Destinations with Severe Operational Restrictions
Airfreight services to the destinations below are highly restricted and subject to airline approval, limited capacity, and frequent schedule disruptions:

  • Israel – Strong security measures; many airlines have suspended cargo services
  • Lebanon – Airport operational, however frequent cancellations and airline embargoes apply
  • Syria – Legal sanctions largely lifted, but commercial airfreight remains extremely limited
  • Bahrain – Reduced capacity with intermittent airline embargoes

What does it mean for you?
Shipments to these destinations may experience delays, rejections, or additional approval requirements.

Destinations Operating with Reduced Capacity
Airfreight services are operating to the following countries; however, you should expect

reduced capacity, longer transit times, and possible delays:

  • United Arab Emirates (Dubai / Abu Dhabi)
  • Qatar (Doha)
  • Saudi Arabia (primarily via Jeddah)
  • Oman (frequently used as an alternative routing hub)

What does it mean for you?
Expect reduced capacity, longer transit times, and possible delays

Important Customer Guidance

  • Airline availability may change at very short notice.
  • Transit times are subject to operational and security‑related delays.
  • Alternative routings may be required depending on destination and airline policy.

We strongly recommend confirming shipment feasibility and routing options prior to dispatch to avoid delays or additional costs. Should you require clarification or wish to review a specific shipment, please contact your usual operational contact.

Our team is actively monitoring the situation and remains fully available to provide destination-specific guidance, alternative routing solutions, and the latest carrier information. Currently, airlines and airport ground handlers are applying a war surcharge in response to prevailing market and security conditions. While this surcharge is outside our direct control, we are managing its application as transparently and commercially as possible.

We expect these measures to be temporary and will continue to monitor developments closely. Any adjustments to the surcharge will be made promptly in line with changing market conditions and communicated accordingly.

Trust having you informed accordingly,

Legero International Group

Robert L.Plune
Group Managing Director & CCO