U.S. and Israel-Iran War Overview

Operational statuses throughout the Middle East remain fluid and changing hourly in some instances. For up-to-the-minute details, please contact your local AIT office. 

AIT continues to closely monitor carrier announcements and capacity conditions as we work with our partners to minimize disruption and support customer planning.

Regional Fuel Impacts

Critical

Asia-Pacific: Active fuel rationing in multiple countries.  

Middle East: Ras Laffan, the world's largest liquified natural gas (LNG) export facility, is offline. Qatar Energy has declared force majeure on all LNG. 

High

Europe: LNG prices are elevated, with stores at 30%.  

South/Southeast Asia: Limited fuel reserves have led to widespread rationing.  

Africa: High import costs are compounding limited fiscal space. 

Moderate

 North America: Gas and diesel prices are elevated. 

Latin America: Higher import bills and currency pressure.  

Road

• Surging demand for inland movement in the Middle East is driving rate increases.
• Expect longer inland transit times.
• Border controls, driver nationality restrictions, and equipment imbalances are impacting capacity.
• Full truckload (FTL) services remain available across Gulf Cooperations Council nations.
• Less-than-truckload (LTL) services are operating with delays in select markets.
• Pre-planning and confirmed delivery appointments are strongly advised.
• Trucking and cartage carriers continue to introduce fuel surcharges, following a spike in diesel prices.

Air

• Fuel availability challenges may result in additional flight cancellations beginning as early as late May, particularly in Europe and parts of Asia.
• In the wake of the conflict, global air cargo has declined sharply—4.8% year-over-year, as of March. In the same period, Middle East air cargo demand was down 54.3%.
• IATA reports that, in March 2026, jet fuel prices were 106.6% higher than in March 2025.
• As flight schedules are reduced, available belly capacity is expected to tighten on select trade lanes. This may result in limited space availability, increased competition for uplift, and potential rate pressure through the summer months.
• Estimates suggest Europe has approximately six weeks of jet fuel left.
• KLM has cancelled 160 European flights across Europe, citing high fuel prices.
• In response to rising fuel costs, Lufthansa has grounded older widebody jets and withdrawn 27 planes from its CityLine service.
• Airspace in the Middle East remains partially open under controlled flight corridors.
• Several countries’ airspace remains closed or highly restricted, including Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, and Syria.
• Continue to expect transit delays, reduced schedule reliability, and premium pricing for time-critical freight.
• Fuel shortages continue to impact carrier capacity; however, capacity is available into the region. AIT continues to offer viable routing options into Middle East markets.
• Some carriers have suspended operations on specific routes in and out of the region.
• Freighter operations remain highly constrained; carriers are expanding operations to major global routes with a focus on essential cargo.
• The most affected trade lanes include Asia Pacific-North America and Asia Pacific-Europe.
• Express services remain available on select lanes but may require refueling stops and are subject to uplift limits.
• Charter solutions continue to be evaluated case by case and require ad hoc approvals for urgent moves. 

Ocean 

• The Strait of Hormuz remains closed to routine commercial traffic. Tanker and liquid and natural gas (LNG) movements are well-below pre-conflict levels.
• Upon immediate de-escalation, stabilization of schedules would require four to eight weeks.
• With no confirmation of de-escalation, risk remains open-ended and schedule reliability remains low.
• Bab al Mandeb rerouting is increasing slowly but remains insufficient to offset lost capacity.
• Delays are worsening, with port delay forecasts up to 4.8 days.
• Continue to expect increased charter dependency, emergency surcharges, war-risk premiums, and insurance constraints to remain in effect.
• Carriers are increasingly exercising end-of-voyage clauses and discharging containers at alternative ports, as they continue to suspend Gulf services, halt or limit new bookings for Arabian Gulf ports, and reroute vessels around the Cape of Good Hope.
• Transit times on Asia-Europe, Asia-U.S. East Coast, and ISC trade lanes are extended by 10 to 14 days.
• In the United Arab Emirates, the Jebel Ali, Khalifa, and Khor Fakkan seaports remain operational but congested. Fujairah oil terminals are partially operational.
• In Oman, both Sohar and Salalah continue to serve as key contingency hubs, with congestion and schedule volatility.
• In Saudi Arabia, Jeddah is absorbing regional overflow traffic; berth delays and yard congestion are increasing. 

Additional mitigation and guidance for shippers 

• 20% of global LNG flows remain at risk.
• Fuel surcharge levels continue to increase daily across all modes and providers.
• Maintain flexibility on routing, final destination, and mode selection.
• Customs authorities across the region remain operational but clearance timelines are extended in several markets, with priority being given in some markets to medical, government-related, and other essential cargo.
• While AIT and partner warehouse facilities across the region are open and operational, minor staffing and appointment-based restrictions may apply.
• Build lead time and adjust inventory buffers.
• Pre‑validate routings and ports with your account team.
• Lock space early for priority cargo; prepare contingency routings via Saudi Arabia or land‑bridge via Jordan.
• Notify your account team of any special cargo requirements for prior approval.
• Share commodity and temperature specs upfront for reefer and any restricted cargo.
• Review contracts and insurance for war‑risk and voyage‑completion terms.
• For lane‑specific options and booking windows, contact your account team.
• AIT leaders continue to actively negotiate with carriers while rerouting shipments as needed within our vast global network. Charters and ad hoc capacity are under constant review to accommodate critical shipments such as food, pharmaceuticals, etc. 

AIT contingency gateway solution 

AIT is providing services from King Khalid International Airport (RUH) near Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and Muscat International Airport (MCT) in Oman, supported by road freight to and from the United Arab Emirates.

Examples of transit times to destinations are tentative, require security approval, and are subject to change without notice. 

RUH to 

• Kuwait: 4-5 days
• Qatar: 3-4 days
• United Arab Emirates: 4-5 days

MCT to 

• Abu Dhabi/Dubai/Qatar: 3-4 days
• Damman/Jeddah/Riyadh: 4-5 days
• Kuwait: 4-5 days

Consignee details and contact person for each destination are required to mention the same in customs manifest for border clearance/movement. 

Operational statuses throughout the Middle East remain fluid and changing hourly in some instances. For up-to-the-minute details, please contact your local AIT office. 

AIT continues to closely monitor carrier announcements and capacity conditions as we work with our partners to minimize disruption and support customer planning.

Regional Fuel Impacts

Critical

Asia-Pacific: Active fuel rationing in multiple countries.  

Middle East: Ras Laffan, the world's largest liquified natural gas (LNG) export facility, is offline. Qatar Energy has declared force majeure on all LNG. 

High

Europe: LNG prices are elevated, with stores at 30%.  

South/Southeast Asia: Limited fuel reserves have led to widespread rationing.  

Africa: High import costs are compounding limited fiscal space. 

Moderate

 North America: Gas and diesel prices are elevated. 

Latin America: Higher import bills and currency pressure.  

Road

• Surging demand for inland movement in the Middle East is driving rate increases.
• Expect longer inland transit times.
• Border controls, driver nationality restrictions, and equipment imbalances are impacting capacity.
• Full truckload (FTL) services remain available across Gulf Cooperations Council nations.
• Less-than-truckload (LTL) services are operating with delays in select markets.
• Pre-planning and confirmed delivery appointments are strongly advised.
• Trucking and cartage carriers continue to introduce fuel surcharges, following a spike in diesel prices.

Air

• Fuel availability challenges may result in additional flight cancellations beginning as early as late May, particularly in Europe and parts of Asia.
• In the wake of the conflict, global air cargo has declined sharply—4.8% year-over-year, as of March. In the same period, Middle East air cargo demand was down 54.3%.
• IATA reports that, in March 2026, jet fuel prices were 106.6% higher than in March 2025.
• As flight schedules are reduced, available belly capacity is expected to tighten on select trade lanes. This may result in limited space availability, increased competition for uplift, and potential rate pressure through the summer months.
• Estimates suggest Europe has approximately six weeks of jet fuel left.
• KLM has cancelled 160 European flights across Europe, citing high fuel prices.
• In response to rising fuel costs, Lufthansa has grounded older widebody jets and withdrawn 27 planes from its CityLine service.
• Airspace in the Middle East remains partially open under controlled flight corridors.
• Several countries’ airspace remains closed or highly restricted, including Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, and Syria.
• Continue to expect transit delays, reduced schedule reliability, and premium pricing for time-critical freight.
• Fuel shortages continue to impact carrier capacity; however, capacity is available into the region. AIT continues to offer viable routing options into Middle East markets.
• Some carriers have suspended operations on specific routes in and out of the region.
• Freighter operations remain highly constrained; carriers are expanding operations to major global routes with a focus on essential cargo.
• The most affected trade lanes include Asia Pacific-North America and Asia Pacific-Europe.
• Express services remain available on select lanes but may require refueling stops and are subject to uplift limits.
• Charter solutions continue to be evaluated case by case and require ad hoc approvals for urgent moves. 

Ocean 

• The Strait of Hormuz remains closed to routine commercial traffic. Tanker and liquid and natural gas (LNG) movements are well-below pre-conflict levels.
• Upon immediate de-escalation, stabilization of schedules would require four to eight weeks.
• With no confirmation of de-escalation, risk remains open-ended and schedule reliability remains low.
• Bab al Mandeb rerouting is increasing slowly but remains insufficient to offset lost capacity.
• Delays are worsening, with port delay forecasts up to 4.8 days.
• Continue to expect increased charter dependency, emergency surcharges, war-risk premiums, and insurance constraints to remain in effect.
• Carriers are increasingly exercising end-of-voyage clauses and discharging containers at alternative ports, as they continue to suspend Gulf services, halt or limit new bookings for Arabian Gulf ports, and reroute vessels around the Cape of Good Hope.
• Transit times on Asia-Europe, Asia-U.S. East Coast, and ISC trade lanes are extended by 10 to 14 days.
• In the United Arab Emirates, the Jebel Ali, Khalifa, and Khor Fakkan seaports remain operational but congested. Fujairah oil terminals are partially operational.
• In Oman, both Sohar and Salalah continue to serve as key contingency hubs, with congestion and schedule volatility.
• In Saudi Arabia, Jeddah is absorbing regional overflow traffic; berth delays and yard congestion are increasing. 

Additional mitigation and guidance for shippers 

• 20% of global LNG flows remain at risk.
• Fuel surcharge levels continue to increase daily across all modes and providers.
• Maintain flexibility on routing, final destination, and mode selection.
• Customs authorities across the region remain operational but clearance timelines are extended in several markets, with priority being given in some markets to medical, government-related, and other essential cargo.
• While AIT and partner warehouse facilities across the region are open and operational, minor staffing and appointment-based restrictions may apply.
• Build lead time and adjust inventory buffers.
• Pre‑validate routings and ports with your account team.
• Lock space early for priority cargo; prepare contingency routings via Saudi Arabia or land‑bridge via Jordan.
• Notify your account team of any special cargo requirements for prior approval.
• Share commodity and temperature specs upfront for reefer and any restricted cargo.
• Review contracts and insurance for war‑risk and voyage‑completion terms.
• For lane‑specific options and booking windows, contact your account team.
• AIT leaders continue to actively negotiate with carriers while rerouting shipments as needed within our vast global network. Charters and ad hoc capacity are under constant review to accommodate critical shipments such as food, pharmaceuticals, etc. 

AIT contingency gateway solution 

AIT is providing services from King Khalid International Airport (RUH) near Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and Muscat International Airport (MCT) in Oman, supported by road freight to and from the United Arab Emirates.

Examples of transit times to destinations are tentative, require security approval, and are subject to change without notice. 

RUH to 

• Kuwait: 4-5 days
• Qatar: 3-4 days
• United Arab Emirates: 4-5 days

MCT to 

• Abu Dhabi/Dubai/Qatar: 3-4 days
• Damman/Jeddah/Riyadh: 4-5 days
• Kuwait: 4-5 days

Consignee details and contact person for each destination are required to mention the same in customs manifest for border clearance/movement. 

Operational statuses throughout the Middle East remain fluid and changing hourly in some instances. For up-to-the-minute details, please contact your local AIT office. 

AIT continues to closely monitor carrier announcements and capacity conditions as we work with our partners to minimize disruption and support customer planning.

Road

• Surging demand for inland movement is driving rate increases.
• Expect longer inland transit times.
• Border controls, driver nationality restrictions, and equipment imbalances are impacting capacity.
• Full truckload (FTL) services remain available across Gulf Cooperations Council nations.
• Less-than-truckload (LTL) services are operating with delays in select markets.
• Pre-planning and confirmed delivery appointments are strongly advised.
• Trucking and cartage carriers in North America and Europe continue to introduce fuel surcharges, following a spike in diesel prices.
• In the United States, fuel surcharges range from 45% to 50% of the base rate for less-than-truckload shipments and $0.60 to $0.70 per mile for full truckload shipments. Surcharges for cross-border trucking into Mexico follow similar percentage and per-mile pricing structures but are contract-driven.
• In Europe, fuel surcharges currently range from 45% to more than 70% of the base rate for road freight.

Air

• In the wake of the conflict, global air cargo has declined sharply—4.8% year-over-year, as of March. In the same period, Middle East air cargo demand was down 54.3%.
• IATA reports that, in March 2026, jet fuel prices were 106.6% higher than in March 2025. 
• Due to projected jet fuel supply constraints, airlines are adjusting passenger and cargo flight schedules ahead of the peak summer season; fuel availability challenges may result in additional flight cancellations beginning as early as late May, particularly in Europe and parts of Asia. 
• As flight schedules are reduced, available belly capacity is expected to tighten on select trade lanes. This may result in limited space availability, increased competition for uplift, and potential rate pressure through the summer months. 
• Estimates suggest Europe has approximately six weeks of jet fuel left.
• KLM has cancelled 160 European flights across Europe, citing high fuel prices.
• In response to rising fuel costs, Lufthansa has grounded older widebody jets and withdrawn 27 planes from its CityLine service.
• Airspace in the Middle East remains partially open under controlled flight corridors.
• Several countries’ airspace remains closed or highly restricted, including Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, and Syria.
• Continue to expect transit delays, reduced schedule reliability, and premium pricing for time-critical freight.
• Fuel shortages continue to impact carrier capacity; however, capacity is available into the region. AIT continues to offer viable routing options into Middle East markets.
• Some carriers have suspended operations on specific routes in and out of the region.
• Freighter operations remain highly constrained; carriers are expanding operations to major global routes with a focus on essential cargo.
• The most affected trade lanes include Asia Pacific-North America and Asia Pacific-Europe.
• Express services remain available on select lanes but may require refueling stops and are subject to uplift limits.
• Charter solutions continue to be evaluated case by case and require ad hoc approvals for urgent moves. 

Ocean 

• The Strait of Hormuz remains closed to routine commercial traffic. Tanker and liquid and natural gas (LNG) movements are well-below pre-conflict levels. 
• With no confirmation of “normalization” timelines, risk remains open-ended and schedule reliability remains low.
• Expect increased charter dependency, emergency surcharges, war-risk premiums, and insurance constraints to remain in effect. 
• Carriers are increasingly exercising end-of-voyage clauses and discharging containers at alternative ports, as they continue to suspend Gulf services, halt or limit new bookings for Arabian Gulf ports, and reroute vessels around the Cape of Good Hope.
• Transit times on Asia-Europe, Asia-U.S. East Coast, and ISC trade lanes are extended by 10 to 14 days.
• In the United Arab Emirates, the Jebel Ali, Khalifa, and Khor Fakkan seaports remain operational but congested. Fujairah oil terminals are partially operational.
• In Oman, both Sohar and Salalah continue to serve as key contingency hubs, with congestion and schedule volatility.
• In Saudi Arabia, Jeddah is absorbing regional overflow traffic; berth delays and yard congestion are increasing. 

Additional mitigation and guidance for shippers 

• 20% of global LNG flows remain at risk.
• Fuel surcharge levels continue to increase daily across all modes and providers.
• Maintain flexibility on routing, final destination, and mode selection.
• Customs authorities across the region remain operational but clearance timelines are extended in several markets, with priority being given in some markets to medical, government-related, and other essential cargo.
• While AIT and partner warehouse facilities across the region are open and operational, minor staffing and appointment-based restrictions may apply.
• Build lead time and adjust inventory buffers.
• Pre‑validate routings and ports with your account team.
• Lock space early for priority cargo; prepare contingency routings via Saudi Arabia or land‑bridge via Jordan.
• Notify your account team of any special cargo requirements for prior approval.
• Share commodity and temperature specs upfront for reefer and any restricted cargo.
• Review contracts and insurance for war‑risk and voyage‑completion terms.
• For lane‑specific options and booking windows, contact your account team.
• AIT leaders continue to actively negotiate with carriers while rerouting shipments as needed within our vast global network. Charters and ad hoc capacity are under constant review to accommodate critical shipments such as food, pharmaceuticals, etc. 

AIT contingency gateway solution 

AIT is providing services from King Khalid International Airport (RUH) near Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and Muscat International Airport (MCT) in Oman, supported by road freight to and from the United Arab Emirates.

Examples of transit times to destinations are tentative, require security approval, and are subject to change without notice. 

RUH to 

• Kuwait: 4-5 days
• Qatar: 4-5 days
• United Arab Emirates: 4-5 days

MCT to 

• Abu Dhabi/Dubai/Qatar: 3-4 days
• Damman/Jeddah/Riyadh: 4-5 days
• Kuwait: 4-5 days

Consignee details and contact person for each destination are required to mention the same in customs manifest for border clearance/movement. 

Operational statuses throughout the Middle East remain fluid and changing hourly in some instances. For up-to-the-minute details, please contact your local AIT office. 

AIT continues to closely monitor carrier announcements and capacity conditions as we work with our partners to minimize disruption and support customer planning.

Road

• Surging demand for inland movement is driving rate increases.
• Expect longer inland transit times.
• Border controls, driver nationality restrictions, and equipment imbalances are impacting capacity.
• Full truckload (FTL) services remain available across Gulf Cooperations Council nations.
• Less-than-truckload (LTL) services are operating with delays in select markets.
• Pre-planning and confirmed delivery appointments are strongly advised.
• Trucking and cartage carriers in North America and Europe continue to introduce fuel surcharges, following a spike in diesel prices.
• In the United States, fuel surcharges range from 45% to 50% of the base rate for less-than-truckload shipments and $0.60 to $0.70 per mile for full truckload shipments. Surcharges for cross-border trucking into Mexico follow similar percentage and per-mile pricing structures but are contract-driven.
• In Europe, fuel surcharges currently range from 45% to more than 70% of the base rate for road freight.

Air

• In the wake of the conflict, global air cargo has declined sharply—4.8% year-over-year, as of March. In the same period, Middle East air cargo demand was down 54.3%.
• IATA reports that, in March 2026, jet fuel prices were 106.6% higher than in March 2025. 
• Due to projected jet fuel supply constraints, airlines are adjusting passenger and cargo flight schedules ahead of the peak summer season; fuel availability challenges may result in additional flight cancellations beginning as early as late May, particularly in Europe and parts of Asia. 
• As flight schedules are reduced, available belly capacity is expected to tighten on select trade lanes. This may result in limited space availability, increased competition for uplift, and potential rate pressure through the summer months. 
• Estimates suggest Europe has approximately six weeks of jet fuel left.
• KLM has cancelled 160 European flights across Europe, citing high fuel prices.
• In response to rising fuel costs, Lufthansa has grounded older widebody jets and withdrawn 27 planes from its CityLine service.
• Airspace in the Middle East remains partially open under controlled flight corridors.
• Several countries’ airspace remains closed or highly restricted, including Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, and Syria.
• Continue to expect transit delays, reduced schedule reliability, and premium pricing for time-critical freight.
• Fuel shortages continue to impact carrier capacity; however, capacity is available into the region. AIT continues to offer viable routing options into Middle East markets.
• Some carriers have suspended operations on specific routes in and out of the region.
• Freighter operations remain highly constrained; carriers are expanding operations to major global routes with a focus on essential cargo.
• The most affected trade lanes include Asia Pacific-North America and Asia Pacific-Europe.
• Express services remain available on select lanes but may require refueling stops and are subject to uplift limits.
• Charter solutions continue to be evaluated case by case and require ad hoc approvals for urgent moves. 

Ocean 

• The Strait of Hormuz remains closed to routine commercial traffic. Tanker and liquid and natural gas (LNG) movements are well-below pre-conflict levels. 
• With no confirmation of “normalization” timelines, risk remains open-ended and schedule reliability remains low.
• Expect increased charter dependency, emergency surcharges, war-risk premiums, and insurance constraints to remain in effect. 
• Carriers are increasingly exercising end-of-voyage clauses and discharging containers at alternative ports, as they continue to suspend Gulf services, halt or limit new bookings for Arabian Gulf ports, and reroute vessels around the Cape of Good Hope.
• Transit times on Asia-Europe, Asia-U.S. East Coast, and ISC trade lanes are extended by 10 to 14 days.
• In the United Arab Emirates, the Jebel Ali, Khalifa, and Khor Fakkan seaports remain operational but congested. Fujairah oil terminals are partially operational.
• In Oman, both Sohar and Salalah continue to serve as key contingency hubs, with congestion and schedule volatility.
• In Saudi Arabia, Jeddah is absorbing regional overflow traffic; berth delays and yard congestion are increasing. 

Additional mitigation and guidance for shippers 

• 20% of global LNG flows remain at risk.
• Fuel surcharge levels continue to increase daily across all modes and providers.
• Maintain flexibility on routing, final destination, and mode selection.
• Customs authorities across the region remain operational but clearance timelines are extended in several markets, with priority being given in some markets to medical, government-related, and other essential cargo.
• While AIT and partner warehouse facilities across the region are open and operational, minor staffing and appointment-based restrictions may apply.
• Build lead time and adjust inventory buffers.
• Pre‑validate routings and ports with your account team.
• Lock space early for priority cargo; prepare contingency routings via Saudi Arabia or land‑bridge via Jordan.
• Notify your account team of any special cargo requirements for prior approval.
• Share commodity and temperature specs upfront for reefer and any restricted cargo.
• Review contracts and insurance for war‑risk and voyage‑completion terms.
• For lane‑specific options and booking windows, contact your account team.
• AIT leaders continue to actively negotiate with carriers while rerouting shipments as needed within our vast global network. Charters and ad hoc capacity are under constant review to accommodate critical shipments such as food, pharmaceuticals, etc. 

AIT contingency gateway solution 

AIT is providing services from King Khalid International Airport (RUH) near Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and Muscat International Airport (MCT) in Oman, supported by road freight to and from the United Arab Emirates.

Examples of transit times to destinations are tentative, require security approval, and are subject to change without notice. 

RUH to 

• Kuwait: 4-5 days
• Qatar: 4-5 days
• United Arab Emirates: 4-5 days

MCT to 

• Abu Dhabi/Dubai/Qatar: 3-4 days
• Damman/Jeddah/Riyadh: 4-5 days
• Kuwait: 4-5 days

Consignee details and contact person for each destination are required to mention the same in customs manifest for border clearance/movement. 

Operational statuses throughout the Middle East remain fluid and changing hourly in some instances. For up-to-the-minute details, please contact your local AIT office. 

AIT continues to closely monitor carrier announcements and capacity conditions as we work with our partners to minimize disruption and support customer planning.

Road

• Surging demand for inland movement is driving rate increases.
• Expect longer inland transit times.
• Border controls, driver nationality restrictions, and equipment imbalances are impacting capacity.
• Full truckload (FTL) services remain available across Gulf Cooperations Council nations.
• Less-than-truckload (LTL) services are operating with delays in select markets.
• Pre-planning and confirmed delivery appointments are strongly advised.
• Trucking and cartage carriers in North America and Europe continue to introduce fuel surcharges, following a spike in diesel prices.
• In the United States, fuel surcharges range from 45% to 50% of the base rate for less-than-truckload shipments and $0.60 to $0.70 per mile for full truckload shipments. Surcharges for cross-border trucking into Mexico follow similar percentage and per-mile pricing structures but are contract-driven.
• In Europe, fuel surcharges currently range from 45% to more than 70% of the base rate for road freight.

Air

• In the wake of the conflict, global air cargo has declined sharply—4.8% year-over-year, as of March. In the same period, Middle East air cargo demand was down 54.3%.
• IATA reports that, in March 2026, jet fuel prices were 106.6% higher than in March 2025. 
• Due to projected jet fuel supply constraints, airlines are adjusting passenger and cargo flight schedules ahead of the peak summer season; fuel availability challenges may result in additional flight cancellations beginning as early as late May, particularly in Europe and parts of Asia. 
• As flight schedules are reduced, available belly capacity is expected to tighten on select trade lanes. This may result in limited space availability, increased competition for uplift, and potential rate pressure through the summer months. 
• Estimates suggest Europe has approximately six weeks of jet fuel left.
• KLM has cancelled 160 European flights across Europe, citing high fuel prices.
• In response to rising fuel costs, Lufthansa has grounded older widebody jets and withdrawn 27 planes from its CityLine service.
• Airspace in the Middle East remains partially open under controlled flight corridors.
• Several countries’ airspace remains closed or highly restricted, including Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, and Syria.
• Continue to expect transit delays, reduced schedule reliability, and premium pricing for time-critical freight.
• Fuel shortages continue to impact carrier capacity; however, capacity is available into the region. AIT continues to offer viable routing options into Middle East markets.
• Some carriers have suspended operations on specific routes in and out of the region.
• Freighter operations remain highly constrained; carriers are expanding operations to major global routes with a focus on essential cargo.
• The most affected trade lanes include Asia Pacific-North America and Asia Pacific-Europe.
• Express services remain available on select lanes but may require refueling stops and are subject to uplift limits.
• Charter solutions continue to be evaluated case by case and require ad hoc approvals for urgent moves. 

Ocean 

• Traffic in the Strait of Hormuz remains critically constrained, with commercial shipping volumes at a near standstill. Tanker and liquid and natural gas (LNG) movements are well-below pre-conflict levels. 
• With no confirmation of “normalization” timelines, risk remains open-ended and schedule reliability remains low.
• Expect increased charter dependency, emergency surcharges, war-risk premiums, and insurance constraints to remain in effect. 
• Carriers are increasingly exercising end-of-voyage clauses and discharging containers at alternative ports, as they continue to suspend Gulf services, halt or limit new bookings for Arabian Gulf ports, and reroute vessels around the Cape of Good Hope.
• Transit times on Asia-Europe, Asia-U.S. East Coast, and ISC trade lanes are extended by 10 to 14 days.
• In the United Arab Emirates, the Jebel Ali, Khalifa, and Khor Fakkan seaports remain operational but congested. Fujairah oil terminals are partially operational.
• In Oman, both Sohar and Salalah continue to serve as key contingency hubs, with congestion and schedule volatility.
• In Saudi Arabia, Jeddah is absorbing regional overflow traffic; berth delays and yard congestion are increasing. 

Additional mitigation and guidance for shippers 

• 20% of global LNG flows remain at risk.
• Fuel surcharge levels continue to increase daily across all modes and providers.
• Maintain flexibility on routing, final destination, and mode selection.
• Customs authorities across the region remain operational but clearance timelines are extended in several markets, with priority being given in some markets to medical, government-related, and other essential cargo.
• While AIT and partner warehouse facilities across the region are open and operational, minor staffing and appointment-based restrictions may apply.
• Build lead time and adjust inventory buffers.
• Pre‑validate routings and ports with your account team.
• Lock space early for priority cargo; prepare contingency routings via Saudi Arabia or land‑bridge via Jordan.
• Notify your account team of any special cargo requirements for prior approval.
• Share commodity and temperature specs upfront for reefer and any restricted cargo.
• Review contracts and insurance for war‑risk and voyage‑completion terms.
• For lane‑specific options and booking windows, contact your account team.
• AIT leaders continue to actively negotiate with carriers while rerouting shipments as needed within our vast global network. Charters and ad hoc capacity are under constant review to accommodate critical shipments such as food, pharmaceuticals, etc. 

AIT contingency gateway solution 

AIT is providing services from King Khalid International Airport (RUH) near Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and Muscat International Airport (MCT) in Oman, supported by road freight to and from the United Arab Emirates.

Examples of transit times to destinations are tentative, require security approval, and are subject to change without notice. 

RUH to 

• Kuwait: 4-5 days
• Qatar: 4-5 days
• United Arab Emirates: 4-5 days

MCT to 

• Abu Dhabi/Dubai/Qatar: 3-4 days
• Damman/Jeddah/Riyadh: 4-5 days
• Kuwait: 4-5 days

Consignee details and contact person for each destination are required to mention the same in customs manifest for border clearance/movement.