Qatar Airways Cargo scheduled flight operations remain temporarily suspended due to the closure of Qatari airspace.

Qatar Airways Cargo will resume operations once the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority announces the safe full reopening of Qatari airspace by the relevant authorities. A further update will be provided on 10 March. We continue to operate some limited Qatar Airways Cargo freighters that are not routed through Doha. Shipments that have been rebooked on these flights can be tracked via qrcargo.com all remaining flights are suspended until further notice. As a result, temporary restrictions remain in place on the booking and acceptance of new shipments until the new operational schedule is available following the official re-opening of the airspace. Customers and partners are advised to regularly check shipment status, review the latest operational updates on qrcargo.com.

Air freight rates set to rise amid escalating Iran conflict

The escalating conflict involving Iran is expected to create significant volatility across global logistics markets. Air freight rates are likely to rise as cargo capacity tightens and airlines adjust or reroute flights to avoid affected airspace.

At the same time, sea freight and project logistics operations are facing mounting pressure, with vessels potentially forced to divert from key shipping lanes. This could lead to increased war-risk surcharges, longer transit times and higher operational costs for businesses moving goods internationally.

As geopolitical tensions continue to reshape global supply chains, companies will need to monitor freight markets closely and remain agile in their logistics planning. Those reliant on time-sensitive cargo in particular may face higher costs and limited capacity in the weeks ahead, reinforcing the importance of resilient and flexible supply chain strategies.

Road freight steps in as Middle East air cargo disruptions intensify

As of early March 2026, escalating geopolitical instability in the Middle East has triggered a temporary but significant shift in freight transport patterns. With airspace restrictions, disrupted flight schedules and reduced cargo capacity across key Gulf hubs, logistics providers are increasingly turning to road transport as an alternative solution.

Freight forwarders and supply chain operators are scrambling to secure trucking capacity across regional corridors, using road networks to maintain cargo flows and connect with unaffected airports and ports. While not a long-term replacement for air cargo, road freight is proving to be a vital contingency measure in the short term.

The sudden modal shift highlights the importance of flexibility in modern supply chains. Businesses reliant on time-sensitive deliveries are being forced to reassess their logistics strategies, with many adopting multimodal solutions to mitigate delays and maintain operational continuity during a period of heightened geopolitical risk.

What the Middle East disruption could mean for the British public

Escalating instability in the Middle East and the resulting disruption to air cargo routes could have several knock-on effects for UK consumers and businesses. While the UK is geographically distant from the conflict, global supply chains are highly interconnected, meaning disruption in one region can quickly ripple across international trade.

Higher prices on imported goods

Air freight is often used for high-value, time-sensitive products such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, luxury goods and fresh food. If air cargo capacity tightens and transport shifts to slower or more expensive routes, import costs may rise. Businesses often pass some of these costs onto consumers, potentially increasing retail prices.

Delays in product availability

Goods that normally arrive quickly by air could take longer to reach the UK if companies switch to sea or road transport via alternative hubs. This could lead to temporary shortages or delays in sectors such as technology, fashion and specialist components used in manufacturing.

Pressure on UK businesses and supply chains

British manufacturers and retailers that rely on global supply networks may face higher logistics costs and longer lead times. Industries dependent on “just-in-time” supply models may need to hold more stock or seek alternative suppliers.

Potential impact on travel and fuel costs

If airspace restrictions affect commercial flight routes, airlines may face longer journey times and higher fuel consumption. In the longer term, this could contribute to higher airfares or operational costs within the aviation sector.

Overall, while the UK is unlikely to face immediate shortages of essential goods, the public may experience slightly higher prices, longer delivery times and increased volatility in certain imported products if disruptions continue.