AIRFREIGHT SERVICE UPDATE
Update: April 16th, 2026
We want to keep you informed of a developing situation impacting airfreight services across the Middle East and Gulf regions, which is now affecting both Export & Import Operations.
Several operational challenges have emerged, and conditions are continuing to change rapidly.
Below is a summary of the key developments:
Airfreight Imports: Temporary Operational Surcharge – UK Airports
A temporary operational surcharge will be applied to all import cargo arriving into London Heathrow and Manchester, effective Friday, 17th April 2026. This is being introduced by airlines in response to increased handling and capacity constraints. We expect all UK airport arrivals to be impacted in the coming weeks.
Airfreight Exports
Airline fuel surcharges continue to increase effective 17th April, and we anticipate a further spike in mid-May.
Validity on ad hoc quote requests will also be shorter due to ongoing volatility and frequent rate changes.
Airline Service Suspensions
Several carriers have suspended services to the Middle East until at least mid-May. This includes Air France / KLM and Turkish Airlines, with further airlines expected to follow as conditions evolve.
Virgin Atlantic has also cancelled services to Riyadh until further notice.
As a result, key Saudi Arabia gateways including Riyadh and Jeddah are also affected, with widespread restrictions and reduced flight availability due to the wider regional situation.
Widespread Flight Cancellations (Until Further Notice)
The following destinations are currently impacted by full suspension of airfreight services, until further notice:
- Iran (IKA)
- Iraq (BGW / EBL)
- Syria (DAM)
- Lebanon (BEY)
- Jordan (AMM)
In addition, Gulf region operations are heavily disrupted, with cancellations affecting, until further notice:
- Dubai (DXB)
- Doha (DOH)
- Kuwait (KWI)
- Bahrain (BAH)
- Abu Dhabi (AUH)
- Dammam (DMM)
What this means for your shipments
Capacity is tightening quickly, and transit times are becoming less predictable. With surcharges being introduced and services withdrawn, we expect upward pressure on rates and potential delays across both direct and transhipment routes.
Our approach
We are actively monitoring the situation and working on alternative routing solutions where possible. This may include adjustments via unaffected hubs or revised airline options, depending on availability.
We will continue to review all shipments on a case-by-case basis and keep you updated with any changes that may impact your cargo.
If you have any urgent shipments or would like us to review specific movements, please get in touch with your usual contact.