Following the joint airstrikes by the United States and Israel on Iran and the rising tensions in the Middle East, several countries have closed their airspace, leading to an increase in the number of civilian aircraft passing through Afghanistan’s airspace.
The Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation of Afghanistan says the number of aircraft transiting Afghanistan’s airspace has increased over the past few days.
A spokesperson for the ministry added that Afghanistan’s airspace is currently considered one of the safest routes for civilian flights.
Spokesperson Hekmatullah Asifi assured that all necessary facilities have been prepared at the country’s airports for passengers and flights, and that efforts to improve services are ongoing.
He said:
“The number of aircraft passing through Afghanistan’s airspace changes from time to time—sometimes it decreases and sometimes it increases. Currently, there has been a rise in transit flights. We assure all civil aviation companies that they can choose Afghanistan’s airspace. We also assure airlines and passengers that timely and appropriate services are provided at all Afghan airports. The Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation always strives to create the necessary facilities not only in road transport but also in the aviation sector.”
Referring to Afghanistan’s geopolitical location, Kabul now plays the role of an aerial crossroads connecting Central Asia, South Asia, and the Gulf countries.
Some analysts believe that the increase in the number of aircraft passing through Afghanistan’s airspace could also lead to higher government revenues.
Economic analyst Abdul Nasir Rashtia said:
“When the number of aircraft passing through Afghanistan’s airspace increases, it first leads to higher national revenues through overflight fees. With higher revenues, the government will be able to implement development projects at its airports and equip them with modern aviation technology.”
At the same time, other analysts say the increase in civilian air traffic over Afghanistan not only brings economic benefits but also demonstrates that the country’s situation is stable and secure.
Economic analyst Younus Zadran said:
“Aircraft that pass through a country’s airspace pay overflight rights and fees. This benefits Afghanistan and increases its revenues.”
According to available information, during the 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel in 2025, air traffic over Afghanistan also increased significantly.
