Air France Suspends Flights over Red Sea

Air France announced on Sunday that it has suspended all flights over the Red Sea "until further notice" as a precautionary measure after reports from its crew indicated the presence of a "luminous object" over Sudan.

This decision comes in response to potential safety risks and was confirmed by the airline in a statement relayed by Agence France-Presse.

The airline detailed that this proactive suspension was implemented following the sighting of an unidentified bright object at a high altitude over Sudan.

Consequently, some flights have been rerouted, and others returned to their departure airports.

Air France emphasized that the safety of its passengers and crew is an "absolute priority." The airline is closely monitoring geopolitical developments in the regions it serves to maintain the highest standards of flight safety and security.

A source within the aviation sector noted that Air France is currently the only carrier taking this precautionary step, and the airspace above the Red Sea has not been officially closed.

The decision comes amid an increase in missile and drone attacks by the Houthi movement, which has been targeting vessels they associate with Israel since November 2023.

These attacks are reportedly conducted in solidarity with the Palestinian cause and are backed by Iran.