flydubai has resumed using Iranian airspace for some of its overflights after months of avoidance, a move that could shorten flight paths from Dubai to the Caucasus and Russia.

Flight tracking data and specialized aviation media reports indicate that flydubai flight FZ 709 from Dubai to Baku entered Iranian airspace on Sunday, August 16. This marks the first confirmed instance of a flydubai flight transiting through Iranian skies since the airline rerouted its flights following an escalation in regional tensions.

In recent months, flydubai had been operating a portion of its flights to destinations in the Caucasus and Russia via alternative routes, which increased travel times. In its latest operational update, the airline stated that some routes had been temporarily modified and flight durations might be longer than usual.

The resumption of flydubai overflights through Iranian airspace comes as regional aviation conditions have not yet fully normalized. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) maintains an active warning, advising airlines under its jurisdiction to avoid Iranian airspace until August 31, 2026, citing ongoing tensions and the potential for renewed military conflict.

Meanwhile, Russia previously lifted restrictions on its airlines using Iranian airspace on April 20, permitting transit through Iranian skies in compliance with the country's aviation guidelines. Aeroflot also resumed regular flights between Moscow and Dubai on June 1.

However, the resumption of flydubai overflights does not signify the return of the airline's direct flights to Iranian cities. flydubai has not yet issued a new official announcement regarding the timeline for the full resumption of these services.