Update: Insurers Tighten Requirements for Flights to the Middle East

Patrick Kremer

Account Manager

2 Min Read

Effective immediately, insurers require advance notification of any planned flight into the affected territories.

Read our initial article about the impact of Middle East conflict on the aviation industry.

Leading aviation insurers – including HDI Global SE, Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty SE, and Starr Europe SE – have issued aligned communications classifying the current situation across the Middle East as critical. Their market response reflects increased operational and political volatility as outlined in the broader conflict assessment.

Heightened Risk Classification

The insurers collectively consider developments in countries such as Iran, Iraq, Israel, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and others to constitute an aggravation or material change of risk. Aviation safety in these regions is significantly impaired due to airspace restrictions, military activity and limited civil operations.

Mandatory Pre‑Approval for All Flights

Effective immediately, insurers require advance notification of any planned flight into the affected territories. Full operational details must be submitted to enable risk assessment. Without timely notification and explicit insurer approval, operators may face:

  • Lack of insurance cover,
  • Additional premiums, or
  • Declined flight requests.

Given the pace of developments, insurers emphasise the need for early submission of flight information.

Implications for CSEE Aviation Businesses

These aligned requirements reinforce the tightening underwriting conditions already observed in the regional conflict context. The Iran Conflict 2026 report highlights that individual flight approvals, rising premiums and close coordination with insurers are becoming essential elements of operating in or near the affected zones.

For all operators planning to fly in this region, the message is clear: such flights now require significantly more preparation and are only possible under stricter conditions and increased scrutiny for each individual operation.

Staying Vigilant Amid Shifting Risks

Insurers continue to monitor the situation and may adjust requirements as regional stability develops. Operators should remain alert to rapid changes in policy conditions and ensure consistent engagement with their insurance partners

Patrick Kremer

Specialist Aviation
GrECo Group

T +43 664 466 2180

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