US airlines cannot fly over Afghanistan for another three years
What happened
The US Federal Aviation Administration extended its ban on US flights over Afghanistan until July 2028. This means US airlines and pilots cannot use Afghan airspace, citing ongoing safety risks.
Why it matters
This extension confirms that the US government still considers Afghanistan too dangerous for its civilian aircraft. It means airlines must continue to plan longer routes around the country, adding to fuel costs and flight times. This decision reflects a persistent assessment of instability in the region, which has not improved enough to allow normal air travel.
The signal
Watch for any changes in regional security assessments from the FAA or other international aviation bodies that might signal a future re-evaluation of this airspace.