Conflict has cost Middle East airports $1bn

The ongoing geopolitical instability in the Middle East has severely impacted regional logistics, with nine major airports reporting a combined loss of 620,000 tonnes of air cargo between late February and April. This 52% year-on-year decline highlights the broader disruption affecting global supply chains, forcing a shift toward maritime routes. As vessels navigate high-risk zones near the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, shipping companies are increasingly prioritizing safety protocols to mitigate risks associated with regional conflict and cargo volatility.

Operational compliance remains critical under the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, which mandates rigorous security assessments for vessels transiting volatile regions. Under SOLAS Chapter XI-2, masters must ensure that Ship Security Plans are updated to address current threats, including potential drone or missile activity. Furthermore, adherence to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) guidance on maritime security is essential for insurance coverage and vessel safety. Classification societies are also tightening requirements for hull integrity and emergency response readiness in high-risk areas.

For masters and navigating officers, this situation necessitates heightened vigilance and strict adherence to bridge watchkeeping procedures. These professionals must closely monitor regional Notices to Mariners and maintain constant communication with naval coalitions operating in the area. Navigating officers should prioritize route planning that avoids high-risk transit corridors whenever possible, ensuring that all security drills are conducted frequently to maintain crew readiness during these periods of heightened regional tension.