Kazakhstani planes flew to Middle East despite warnings – Foreign Ministry

Tengrinews.kz - Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has commented on the operations of Kazakhstan’s airlines amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Aibek Smadiyarov referred to a statement from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, which had earlier advised against flying within or near the airspace of several countries in the region. The list includes Iran, Israel, Syria, Iraq, Jordan, and Lebanon.

"Tourists are strongly advised to closely monitor the situation and consider potential risks when planning trips, particularly to the UAE and other Gulf states. If necessary, the return of Kazakh tourists will be arranged in cooperation with the 'Turistik Kamkor' fund and airlines," Smadiyarov stated.

However, despite official warnings, flights from Kazakhstan to the United Arab Emirates continued to operate at full capacity, he noted.
"Despite the warnings issued by state agencies, planes from Kazakhstan to the UAE have departed over the past two days with full passenger loads. We urge travelers heading to the Middle East to carefully assess all risks and make informed decisions," the spokesperson emphasized.
The Foreign Ministry, together with the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the Turistik Kamkor fund, and airlines, continues to coordinate efforts to assist Kazakh citizens abroad.
Earlier, the Aviation Administration of Kazakhstan imposed a complete ban on flights over several countries due to the outbreak of hostilities in the Middle East and the high level of threat to civil aviation safety.