Air France Suspends Flights Over Red Sea Amid Security Concerns
Air France has announced the suspension of its flights over the Red Sea, effective immediately and lasting until further notice. This decision was made as a precautionary measure after crew members reported observing a "luminous object" in Sudan. The airline has not specified the nature of this object or provided a timeline for when flights will resume in the region.
The suspension has led to the rerouting of some flights, with certain aircraft returning to their original destinations. Air France emphasized its commitment to monitoring geopolitical developments in the areas where it operates, ensuring the highest safety and security standards for its passengers. An aviation source indicated that Air France is currently the only airline implementing such precautionary measures, despite the airspace over the area remaining open.
Background Context: Geopolitical Tensions in the Region
This suspension occurs against a backdrop of ongoing conflicts in Sudan, where fighting between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces has been ongoing since mid-April 2023. Moreover, maritime navigation in the Red Sea has been disrupted due to attacks on vessels associated with Israel by the Houthi movement, which has been targeting these ships in solidarity with Palestine for over a year. These geopolitical tensions have raised concerns about safety in the region, prompting Air France's cautious response.
