Global airline shares steadied Wednesday after sharp losses, as governments organized repatriation flights to evacuate citizens stranded across the Middle East.
The easing selloff comes despite escalating U.S. and Israeli military strikes against Iran, which have disrupted regional aviation and heightened geopolitical tensions.
Airspace across much of the Middle East remains largely empty, with major hubs including Dubai International Airport closed for a fifth consecutive day.
The shutdown marks the region’s largest aviation disruption since the COVID-19 pandemic, halting thousands of routine daily flights.
Initial evacuation flights for Britain and France were scheduled to depart Wednesday, while the United Arab Emirates opened special corridors for returning citizens.
Airline stocks showed modest stabilization after recent double-digit market losses that erased tens of billions of dollars in sector value.
Carriers face operational challenges as pilots and crews remain scattered globally, complicating efforts to quickly restore normal flight schedules.
Analysts warn prolonged conflict and rising oil prices could push ticket costs higher, as airlines rely on longer routes to avoid restricted airspace.
