Bahrain shifts aircraft as regional conflict intensifies

Bahrain has repositioned several passenger and cargo aircraft from Bahrain International Airport to other airports as part of measures to enhance operational readiness amid ongoing regional tensions, authorities said.

The Civil Aviation Affairs department at the Bahrain Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications confirmed that several Gulf Air passenger planes, along with cargo aircraft, were moved under approved operational arrangements, Bahrain News Agency reports.

“The aircraft transferred from Bahrain International Airport were empty, and the relocation was coordinated with airlines and cargo operators,” the authority said. “This measure aims to strengthen operational preparedness and ensure the smooth continuation of air operations.”

Civil Aviation Affairs stressed that the repositioning is part of ongoing coordination with relevant authorities and airlines to maintain air operations in line with the highest safety and security standards. The department added that such measures are standard operational procedures designed to support airlines’ future plans and meet requirements for the upcoming operational phase.

The move comes amid heightened regional escalation following the joint attack by Israel and the United States against Iran on February 28, which reportedly killed more than 1,200 people and injured 10,000. In response, Tehran has launched drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries hosting US military assets, leading several airspaces to be closed.

Authorities emphasized that the relocation of aircraft is a precautionary measure to maintain operational continuity and ensure readiness amid the evolving security situation.

By Vafa Guliyeva