Editor’s Note

This is an evolving story; updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Overview of Airline Responses

In response to the escalating conflict in Iran that began on February 28, multiple airlines and travel service providers are taking significant steps to safeguard their customers.

The Philippines has notably increased the frequency of flight cancellations and diversions in the Middle East. This is particularly relevant given the large number of overseas Filipino workers and the current religious pilgrimages occurring.

Philippine Airlines is actively monitoring the situation within the Middle East, focusing on operational limitations impacting both airspace and airports.

Cancelled Flights:

• PR658 / PR659 – Manila to Dubai and back
• PR654 / PR655 – Manila to Riyadh and back

Additionally, Cebu Pacific has announced the cancellation of its scheduled Manila-Dubai flights (5J14 and 5J15) initially planned for March 3.

Safety Statement from Cebu Pacific

“The safety and well-being of our passengers, crew, and ground teams remain our utmost priority. We continue to closely monitor developments and assess flight operations in the region.”

Passengers can rebook or convert travel funds for specific dates affecting travel to:

• Dubai (March 1 - 8)
• Riyadh (March 1 - 9)

Further details and assistance are available through the Cebu Pacific Manage Booking portal.

Other Airline Operations in the Region

• Malaysia Airlines has suspended flights to Doha and Jeddah, with an emphasis on ensuring safety until airspace conditions improve.
• Garuda Indonesia has alternatively halted services to Doha.
• Singapore Airlines and Scoot announced cancellations for flights to Dubai and Jeddah, respectively.
• Thai AirAsia has also discontinued flights to Riyadh as of March 1.

Interestingly, Thai Airways has not announced flight cancellations but is adjusting European routes to safer paths.

Flights Affected Outside Southeast Asia

Major airlines operating from China’s Greater Bay Area are modifying ticketing arrangements for routes to the Middle East. Passengers may be eligible for full refunds or rescheduling at no extra charge.

In Taiwan, Taoyuan Airport announced several flight cancellations headed to the Middle East, managed by Etihad and Emirates. Emirates has encouraged affected passengers to rebook or seek refunds.