An Air France spokesperson said flights over the Red Sea were suspended after the crew had reported a “luminous object” at high altitude near Sudan, according to Arab media.
This decision follows a crew’s observation of a luminous object at high altitude in the Sudan area.
The company called the suspension a “precautionary measure” until further notice. Nevertheless, tensions across the region remain high over Iran’s potential retaliation for Israel’s strike in the next few days.
Several flights were affected, including flight AF934 from Paris-Charles de Gaulle to Antananarivo, Madagascar, which returned to Paris about three hours after departure. Additional flight AF814 to Nairobi and associated return flights AF935 and AF815 were delayed, with some rescheduled for 4 November.
The incident took place amid growing security concerns in the Red Sea region, where Yemeni Houthis intensified attacks on naval vessels and launched rockets towards Israel. In response, airlines operating flights in the area are adjusting routes and reinforcing security protocols.
Air France reminds that the safety of its customers and crews is its absolute imperative. The company is constantly monitoring developments in the geopolitical situation of the territories served and overflown by its aircraft.
According to FlightRadar24, the airline’s flights were diverted through Omani and Saudi Arabian airspace following the suspension. The course changes increase flight times by about one hour and boost fuel consumption, while many other flights have been diverted to Iraqi territory.
The Red Sea Corridor is the most important air route connecting Europe to East Africa and the Indian Ocean region.
