Edinburgh flight diverted after U.S and Israel attack Iran

Qatar Airways plane
Qatar Airways plane
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A flight from Edinburgh bound for Qatar has turned back after the United States and Israel launched military strikes on Iran.

The U.S has been massing its military in the Middle East since January, and on Saturday morning began major combat operations.

The UK Foreign Office had evacuated all staff from Iran on Friday, while the American embassy in Israel had said non-essential staff could leave.

As a result of the attack, airspace over Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Bahrain and Qatar has been closed.

A Qatar Airways flight, QTR59F, left Edinburgh Airport at 7.50am to head to Doha.

However, the aircraft was turned back over Germany and as of 10.30am was heading back to Edinburgh.

British Airways said it had cancelled all flights to Bahrain and Tel Aviv until March 3.

A spokesperson said: “We are closely monitoring the situation and have taken the operational decision to cancel our flights to Tel Aviv and Bahrain up to and including 03 March and have cancelled today’s service to Amman.

“Safety is always our top priority, and we’re contacting our customers to advise them of their travel options.”

WizzAir director Rachel Wray said all flights to Israel, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Amman would be suspended.

She said: “Wizz Air confirms that, following the recent escalation of the security situation in Iran, the airline is suspending all flights to and from Israel, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Amman with immediate effect up until and including 7 March.

“The airline is closely monitoring developments and remains in ongoing contact with local and international authorities, aviation safety agencies, security authorities, and relevant governmental bodies. Operational decisions will continue to be reviewed, and the flight schedule may be adjusted as the situation evolves.”

The Foreign Office has updated its travel advice to warn against all travel to Israel and Palestine.

In a statement on its website, it said: “Due to the threat posed by escalation in the region, we recommend against all travel to Israel and Palestine.

“On 28 February 2026, the US and Israel commenced joint military action in Iran, Israeli airspace has now closed.”

British nationals in the region are urged to take “sensible precautions”, including following advice from regional authorities, staying away from military facilities and ensuring travel documents are up to date.

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