PAL, Cebu Pacific adjust Middle East flights amid security concerns

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March 1, 2026 | 10:37am

MANILA, Philippines — Amid escalating security tensions in parts of the Middle East, Philippine Airlines (PAL) and Cebu Pacific have announced flight diversions, cancellations, and flexible rebooking options to prioritize the safety of passengers and crew, urging travelers to check their flight status before heading to the airport.

Iran, Iraq, Israel, Syria, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates, on Saturday, February 28, announced partial closures of their airspace after the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran. In view of this, flights across the Middle East were canceled amid the attacks in the region. 

PAL update

In an advisory, PAL said it is closely monitoring developments in the region and prioritizing safety above all else. Due to operational restrictions at certain Middle East airports, the airline has made the following adjustments:

• Flight diversions:

  • PR654 (Manila – Riyadh), which departed Manila on February 28, will return to Manila, arriving at 10:40 p.m. local time.

  • PR658 (Manila – Dubai), also departed on February 28, will return to Manila, arriving at 9:52 p.m. local time.

• Flight cancellations:

  • February 28: PR684 (Manila – Doha), PR655 (Riyadh – Manila), PR659 (Dubai – Manila)

  • March 1: PR685 (Doha – Manila)

PAL is coordinating with aviation authorities, airport operators, and government agencies to monitor airspace and operational advisories. Passengers affected by diversions or cancellations are being assisted with rebooking, rerouting, or refunds. Travelers are advised to check flight status via the PAL website, mobile app, or official social media channels before heading to the airport.

Cebu Pacific update

On Sunday, March 1, Cebu Pacific also said it is closely monitoring the situation and emphasizing passenger and crew safety. For flights to and from Dubai and Riyadh, Cebu Pacific is extending flexible options, including free rebooking and Travel Fund conversion until March 4, 2026.

Passengers may manage these options via the Manage Booking portal on the carrier's website, up to two hours before departure. Flight operations will continue to be assessed, and further schedule adjustments may be necessary as the situation develops. Travelers are encouraged to regularly check cebupacificair.com/flight-status and ensure their contact details are updated for timely notifications.

Both airlines thank passengers for their patience and understanding as they navigate this evolving situation, reaffirming that safety remains the highest priority.

"We appreciate the understanding and patience of our passengers affected by this developing situation," PAL said.

"We thank our passengers for their continued patience and understanding," Cebu Pacific concluded.

In a separate advisory, the New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) also informed passengers with scheduled flights at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport to or from Middle East destinations are advised to check their flight status before proceeding to the airport, citing precautionary airspace restrictions that could delay, reroute and cancel flights.

"Passengers are encouraged to contact their airline directly for the latest updates, confirm their booking before travel, and ensure their contact details are updated to receive notifications," NNIC said in a Facebook post.

"Families and friends meeting arriving passengers are likewise advised to verify arrival times with the airline before heading to the airport, as schedules may change," it added.

The NNIC assured the public that it continues to coordinate closely with airlines and aviation authorities to ensure safe and orderly operations.