Investigation Launched into Air France Flight Amid Iranian Missile Attack
Air France has initiated an internal investigation following a harrowing incident involving flight AF662, which was in Iraqi airspace during the Iranian missile attack on Israel on October 1. The flight, en route from Paris to Dubai, coincided with Iran's launch of approximately 200 ballistic missiles in retaliation for the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. According to Air France, the aircraft exited Iraqi airspace just before it was officially closed, which did not occur until about an hour later. The airline acted swiftly, suspending all flights over Iraq upon receiving intelligence about the impending attack.
Details of the Incident
Reports indicate that the pilots of flight AF662 witnessed missiles from their cockpit as they traversed southern Iraq around 4:45 p.m. UTC. This alarming proximity raised significant safety concerns, prompting Air France to take immediate action to avoid further flights in the region. The airline emphasized that it had already been avoiding airspace over Israel, Lebanon, and Iran, and had been using a designated corridor for flights over Iraq. The investigation aims to clarify the circumstances surrounding this dangerous situation and ensure the safety of future flights.
Escalating Tensions in the Middle East
The incident has occurred amid escalating conflicts in the Middle East, particularly with Israel's ongoing military operations in Gaza, which have resulted in substantial casualties and destruction. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned of the potential for a prolonged conflict, as the government considers its response to Iran's missile strikes. The situation remains volatile, with international observers closely monitoring developments as Air France seeks to shed light on the events that unfolded during this critical moment.
