EU extends ban on flights to Middle East until May 1

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency has extended its advisory that European carriers should not operate flights to the Middle East until May 1, citing ongoing security concerns. The ban covers Israel as well as Bahrain, Iraq, Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. European airlines may resume service to Israel as early as the first week of May, with limited options currently limited to El Al and the UAE carriers Etihad and Emirates. The recommendation remains in effect until the agency reassesses the regional risk environment.