Rome, March 12, 2026 – Italian aviation authorities have issued updated guidance for air travel following a series of strikes in February and March that have disrupted regional operations amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.www.youtube.comwww.youtube.com The new directives emphasize enhanced safety protocols at key airports, including mandatory pre-flight briefings on air threat alerts and alternative routing options to avoid conflict zones like Iraq and the Persian Gulf.www.euronews.comwww.euronews.com

The guidance comes one day after a presumed Iranian drone or missile strike hit Italy's Camp Sigara base at Erbil airport in Iraq on March 12, causing damage to infrastructure but no injuries among personnel, as confirmed by base commander Stefano Pizzotti. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani verified the attack, noting it occurred as the Iran conflict entered its 13th day, with related incidents including ship strikes off Iraq and fires at Bahrain fuel facilities prompting airlines like Gulf Air to reposition aircraft.www.euronews.com February strikes, part of the same regional escalation, had already strained aviation logistics across Europe and the Gulf.

Officials stress that the updates aim to minimize risks without halting flights, urging passengers to check with carriers for delays amid oil price surges above $100 per barrel and broader disruptions.ottawa.citynews.ca Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has reiterated Italy's commitment to diplomacy, rejecting military escalation while expressing solidarity with strike victims.timesofindia.indiatimes.com Aviation experts anticipate the guidance will evolve as investigations into the Erbil incident continue.