Air freight is discovering alternative routes due to closures in the Middle East.

Air cargo between Asia and Europe is experiencing significant disruptions, leading to longer, more complex, and costlier routes as airlines avoid restricted airspace in the Middle East. Historically, cargo would transit through established hubs in the region, but ongoing closures have forced airlines to reroute shipments, often utilizing alternative gateways like Riyadh and Muscat. This shift is increasing transit times and operational complexities, causing backlogs and unstable schedules. As airlines adapt by adding direct flights and exploring new hubs, the impact on global trade is profound, resulting in higher costs and less predictable delivery timelines.