The airline Air France has suspended its flights over the Red Sea “until further notice,” a decision motivated by the observation of a bright object at high altitude in the Sudan area. This precautionary measure has led several aircraft to change their route or turn back to safely return to Paris. The ongoing conflict situation in Sudan and the tensions caused by attacks launched from Yemen further exacerbate an already volatile context.
Context of the suspension
On November 3, 2024, Air France shared on social media that this deviation was due to a concerning observation reported by a crew flying over the southern Red Sea. Due to rumors circulating online regarding a possible missile fired from Sudan towards an Air France aircraft, the company has been proactive and reactive in response to growing concerns about air safety. Although there has been speculation about a potential attack, Air France has formally denied these allegations, stating that it cannot confirm that this object is linked to hostile activity.
Impacts on operations
Changes in operations have affected several important flights:
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Flight AF934 connecting Paris to Antananarivo (Madagascar): Immediate return after changing its course.
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Flight AF814 to Nairobi: This flight also turned back under strict instructions.
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Other flights such as those to Mauritius and Réunion were able to operate normally but with necessary adjustments to avoid the affected area.
Air France stands out as currently the only airline operating in this particularly tense geopolitical region. While airspace is not officially closed to other commercial pilots, it is clear that this increased caution highlights the surrounding uncertainty that envelops the skies of the Middle East.
Safety first
To ensure a high level of safety and security for its customers and crew, Air France remains vigilant regarding developments in the geopolitical climate emanating not only from Sudan but also from hostile activities observed from Yemen where the Houthis are intensifying their strikes against what they consider linked to Israeli interests.
This decision clearly illustrates how even a simple observation can lead to significant operational changes based on the fundamental principle of precaution recognized in the aviation industry.
