# Over 1,000 flights operated by Middle Eastern airlines to Thailand cancelled

- Link: https://www.thailand-business-news.com/middle-east/295379-over-1000-flights-operated-by-middle-eastern-airlines-to-thailand-cancelled
- Published: 2026-03-18T16:19:51+07:00
- Author: Abhishek Prakash

The conflict in the Middle East has significantly disrupted Thailand’s aviation 
sector, leading to the cancellation of over 1,000 flights and a downward revision
of 2026 growth projections to a maximum of 3%.

According to Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Ltd (AEROTHAI), the combination of geopolitical
instability, airspace closures, and surging fuel costs is straining air traffic 
management and increasing operating expenses for airlines, ultimately slowing the
industry’s recovery and long-term expansion.

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 * Over 1,000 flights operated by Middle Eastern airlines to Thailand have been 
   cancelled since the conflict began on February 28, 2026, accounting for approximately
   3% of total flight volumes.
 * Suvarnabhumi Airport has been the most affected with over 600 cancellations, 
   followed by Phuket Airport with 400, while Krabi, Chiang Mai, and Don Mueang 
   have also experienced disruptions.
 * The conflict is impacting critical flight corridors connecting Europe, the Middle
   East, and Asia, requiring AEROTHAI to monitor route changes and potential airspace
   closures closely.
 * Rising global oil prices and an associated energy crisis have increased operating
   costs for airlines, leading to higher passenger fares.

Volatility in global oil prices has increased operational costs for airlines, leading
to higher airfares and potentially weakening long-term passenger demand. Projected
flight growth for 2026 has been adjusted downward to no more than 3% over 2025 levels
due to the severity of the conflict and economic pressures.