Flights diverted around Israel-Iran crisis fill Afghan airspace – Taliban profit

Record Number of Flights Traverse Taliban-Controlled Afghan Airspace in Aftermath of Iran’s Attack on Israel

Israel-Iran Crisis: The aftermath of Iran’s missile attack on Israel has led to a surge in the number of international flights passing through Taliban-controlled Afghan airspace. A record 191 flights crossed Afghanistan on Thursday, with airlines paying the civil aviation ministry $700 per flight. This revenue stream is vital for the cash-strapped Taliban regime.

Since the collapse of the Nato-allied government in August 2021, Afghan airspace was off-limits, but flights have been gradually returning. The recent increase in traffic was prompted by Iran’s attack on Israel, forcing airlines to avoid Iranian airspace and opt for the safer Afghan corridor. This decision was also political, aimed at pressuring the Taliban.

The return of flights has economic benefits for both airlines and the Taliban. While the amounts paid may not be significant, they contribute to the Taliban’s limited revenues. The use of Afghan airspace is perceived as safer than Iranian airspace in the current geopolitical climate. Despite concerns about military threats, flights at high altitudes in Afghanistan are considered safer from surface-to-air missiles.

As airlines seek more direct routes and lower costs, the reliance on Afghan airspace is likely to continue, providing some economic relief for the Taliban-controlled state. This shift in flight patterns could benefit ordinary Afghans by funding essential services like health and education.

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