Qantas flights diverted from Europe as Iranian strikes throw travel into chaos
Qantas' Perth-Paris flight turned back to Perth, while the airline's Perth-London diverted to Singapore, a spokesperson confirmed. One flight was over Indian airspace, and the other was nearby when the changes were made.
'We continue to monitor airspace availability closely and will alter our schedule as required, ' said a spokesperson for Qantas, who thanked passengers for 'their patience and understanding'.
QF9, the Perth-London flight, is carrying 199 passengers and 14 crew who will now stay in Singapore for the night, as future arrangements are made. QF33, the Perth-Paris flight, has 216 passengers and 14 crew, who will stay overnight in Perth, before travelling onward.
The failure of those flights to reach their destinations will have follow-on effects for Qantas with flights QF10 (London to Perth) and QF34 (Paris to Perth) – having to be cancelled and rescheduled.
Global airlines are feeling the effect of the escalating conflict in the Middle East, as airstrikes force carriers to navigate around a wide swath of territory, tear up flight schedules and turn around aircraft mid-flight.
By 7.45am AEST, Qatar said its flights had resumed following the reopening of airspace in the State of Qatar.
'Our focus at this time is to help our passengers return home or reach their onward journey safely and smoothly,' he said.
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