Air France Investigates Jet Over Iraq During Iranian Missile Assault on Israel

Air France is investigating an incident involving Flight AF662, which was flying over Iraq when Iranian missiles were launched toward Israel. The airline began suspending flights over Iraq prior to the official closure of the airspace, citing safety concerns amid growing tensions in the region.

Air France has initiated an inquiry regarding an incident where a passenger aircraft flying from Paris to Dubai traversed Iraqi airspace while Iranian missiles were en route to Israel on October 1. The airline reported that it became aware of the imminent missile attack and adjusted its flight operations accordingly. Notably, Air France Flight AF662 was at a position over Iraq when the missile assault commenced at approximately 4:45 p.m. UTC. Although Air France vacated Iraqi airspace shortly before 5 p.m. UTC, local authorities did not officially close the airspace until nearly an hour later, at 5:56 p.m. UTC. The circumstances surrounding the incident prompted Air France to suspend overflights across Iraqi airspace proactively, reflecting the airline’s commitment to flight safety and security. Other flights were also redirected to avoid the area amid escalating tensions, with the U.S. government indicating that Iran was planning to launch an imminent attack on Israel just hours prior to the strikes. Further complicating the situation, reports from French media suggested that pilots of the affected aircraft may have visually observed missiles during their flight. Such developments transpire amidst intensifying conflict in the region, with Israeli military actions against Hezbollah and ongoing hostilities in Gaza. Israeli authorities are currently deliberating their response to the recent attacks, with a firm stance articulated against Iran for its role in the aggression toward Israel.

The article discusses a significant security event involving Air France and geopolitical tensions affecting air travel safety. On October 1, amidst rising conflict in the Middle East, Iran launched missile strikes aimed at Israel purportedly in response to the death of a prominent Hezbollah leader. Air traffic is usually regulated strictly in such volatile regions, necessitating active monitoring by airlines to ensure passenger safety. The incident amplifies concerns over regional instability and the implications it has on international aviation, spotlighting the necessity for thorough assessments and rapid operational adjustments to safeguard air travel.

The investigation launched by Air France underscores the airline’s proactive approach to safety amid heightened geopolitical risks. The incident highlights the importance of real-time intelligence and swift reactions in the aviation industry during escalated military confrontations. As conflicts in the Middle East continue to evolve, it remains imperative for airlines to prioritize the safety of their operations and to remain vigilant regarding regional developments. Overall, as nations deliberate their respective responses, the airline’s actions reflect a critical imperative in contemporary air travel: the assurance of passenger and crew safety in increasingly precarious international contexts.

Original Source: www.cnn.com