- Flight Disruptions
- Global cancellations surpass 37,000 amid Middle East conflict; Thailand logs 166 cancellations
Global cancellations surpass 37,000 amid Middle East conflict; Thailand logs 166 cancellations
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Checked by Josh Arnfield
Last updated on March 11, 2026
166
Affected flights
4
Affected airlines
166
Affected flights
4
Affected airlines
What Happened
Over 37,000 flights have been canceled worldwide due to the Middle East conflict, with major Gulf carriers affected. In Thailand, 166 flights were canceled between Feb 28 and Mar 3 (105 outbound, 61 inbound), impacting gateways including Phuket, Krabi, and Chiang Mai. International arrivals to Thailand declined in early March, particularly from long-haul markets. Rising fuel prices are increasing airline costs and could push fares higher. Authorities in Thailand are redirecting marketing efforts toward alternative source markets while monitoring potential longer-term impacts.
Passengers affected by this flight disruption may be eligible for compensation of up to US$650 under passenger rights regulations. Eligibility depends on the circumstances of the disruption.
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Flight Disruption Details
A global wave of flight cancellations has intensified amid the Middle East conflict, with more than 37,000 flights canceled worldwide since the onset of the crisis. The article highlights significant impacts on major Gulf-based carriers, specifically Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, and Gulf Air, which together carry a substantial share of traffic between Europe and Asia. The disruption has stranded passengers at key international hubs and weakened confidence in international travel flows.
Thailand has reported concrete operational impacts. Between 2026-02-28 and 2026-03-03, 166 flights were canceled nationwide—105 outbound and 61 inbound—affecting popular gateways including Phuket, Krabi, and Chiang Mai. Authorities indicated there were no passengers stranded in airports during that period. The private sector has called for coordinated government action, including a permanent public–private task force, alternative routings that avoid conflict zones, and financial measures to protect bookings.
Travel demand indicators show early March weakness. From March 1–9, 2026, Thailand welcomed over 741,000 international visitors, a 5.69% decline year over year. Long-haul markets showed the sharpest drops: Europe (-14.39%, or 41,957 fewer arrivals), the United States (-7.37%, or 3,447 fewer), and the Middle East (-76.51%, or 2,286 fewer). Although the Middle East typically accounts for a small share of Thailand’s arrivals, transit-linked effects are weighing on broader long-haul demand.
Forward-looking scenarios suggest larger potential tourism losses if the conflict continues. Estimates range from a three-week impact resulting in about 210,973 fewer tourists and THB 13.167 billion in lost revenue, to an eight-week scenario with around 595,874 fewer tourists and nearly THB 40.972 billion in losses. In response, the Tourism Authority of Thailand is pivoting toward alternative source markets such as China, India, Japan, and Australia, with a focus on high-spending segments and regional travel.
Airlines are also contending with elevated fuel prices of US $100–$120 per barrel, which are increasing operating costs and likely to lift airfares across routes. This is expected to pressure airline and hotel profitability and could further dampen both long-haul and short-haul demand in the near term.
This remains a live disruption with ongoing cancellations and delays linked to the conflict, alongside clear, date-specific cancellations recorded in Thailand between February 28 and March 3.
Know your rights
These are your air passenger rights
When your flight's disrupted, you have rights. Most passenger protection laws cover the following:
Compensation
Good passenger rights ensure passengers get fairly compensated for delays and cancellations. Try our compensation check and find out how much money we can get you.
Rerouting or refund
If your flight is canceled, your airline must provide an alternative. Some laws say you can choose a full refund instead.
Food and essential care
Providing food and drinks is a basic right under many regulations. Typically after a delay of a few hours.
Accommodation
Some passenger rights say the airline must provide accommodation when your journey is delayed overnight.
This advice is provided to help you if your flight is delayed or canceled. However, the exact care and compensation you are entitled to will depend on your specific circumstances and flight. Always follow the directions of your airline, particularly with regard to check-in and boarding times.
Quick facts
Summary
Disruption
Delays and Cancellations
Cause
Other
Status
Current disruption
Compensation
May qualify for compensation
Flights affected
166
Airlines affected
Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Gulf Air
Cities affected
Phuket, Krabi, Chiang Mai
Countries affected
Thailand
Start date
2026-02-28
End date
2026-03-03
Checked by
Josh Arnfield
Date updated
March 11, 2026
What To Do If Your Flight Is Cancelled
If you're traveling to or from the European Union, here's what to do when your flight is unexpectedly scrubbed:
Gather evidence that your flight was delayed, canceled, or overbooked.
Get the airline to provide written confirmation of the disruption and the reason behind it.
Request an alternative flight to your destination — or a refund if you no longer wish to travel.
Make a note of the arrival time at your final destination.
Ask the airline to provide vouchers for meals and refreshments.
Avoid signing documents or accepting offers that may waive your passenger rights.
If an overnight stay is required, ask the airline to provide accommodation.
Save receipts for any additional expenses caused by the disruption.
