Air France Launches Internal Investigation Following Iraqi Airspace Incident
Air France has initiated an internal investigation after one of its flights, AF662, inadvertently flew over Iraqi territory during the Iranian missile attack on Israel on October 1. The airline's decision comes in light of serious safety concerns following reports that the plane was in the vicinity of missile activity as the attack unfolded. The incident raises critical questions about flight safety protocols in conflict zones.
Timeline of Events on October 1
On October 1, Air France received intelligence regarding an imminent Iranian attack on Israel involving ballistic missiles. In response, the airline suspended all flights over Iraqi airspace starting at 5 p.m. UTC, just before the attack commenced at approximately 4:45 p.m. UTC. Flight AF662, which was en route from Paris to Dubai, was flying over southern Iraq when the missiles were launched. Notably, Iraqi airspace was not officially closed until 5:56 p.m. UTC, raising concerns about the timing and decision-making processes involved.
Pilots Report Missile Sightings
Reports indicate that the pilots of flight AF662 may have seen the missiles from the cockpit, a claim that Air France has not confirmed. Laurent Veque, a representative from the National Union of Airline Pilots, emphasized the need for transparency regarding the incident, stating, 'Light must be shed on what transpired.' This situation has prompted discussions within the airline industry about the protocols for flying over areas experiencing military conflict and the need for enhanced safety measures.
