The Qatar Civil Aviation Authority has outlined the coordinated response undertaken to safeguard aviation operations following the closure of Qatar’s airspace on 28 February 2026, which was partially reopened on 7 March.
In an update shared on Instagram, the authority noted that multiple operational and support divisions worked together closely, alongside relevant stakeholders, to manage the situation effectively.
During the disruption, the Air Navigation Department played a critical role in ensuring flight safety. It guided nearby aircraft to land at Hamad International Airport and arranged diversions to alternative airports where necessary. Additionally, an emergency air corridor (L564) was operated for eight hours daily to support controlled air traffic movement.
The Air Safety Department introduced several temporary measures to maintain compliance and continuity. These included granting exceptional approvals to 68 foreign maintenance organisations and five maintenance stations operated by Qatar Airways. It also extended Airworthiness Review Certificates for 14 aircraft until required inspections could be completed in Doha, and issued an Emergency Public Notice to direct passengers and personnel to designated safe zones.
On the security front, continuous coordination was maintained with local authorities and neighbouring airports, supported by intensified on-ground inspections and the release of regional safety guidance to reinforce aviation security protocols.
Efforts to manage passenger flow were led by the Air Transport Department, which facilitated travel and repatriation arrangements. Meanwhile, the Firefighting and Rescue Department activated emergency response plans, enhanced equipment readiness, ensured the availability of firefighting resources and reorganised teams to maintain uninterrupted operations.
The QCAA reaffirmed its focus on maintaining the highest standards of aviation safety as the situation continues to evolve.
