Queen’s University Students Stranded in Doha Amidst Middle East Airspace Closures
Doha, Qatar – A group of Queen’s University students found themselves unexpectedly stranded in Doha, Qatar, this weekend after escalating tensions in the Middle East led to widespread airspace closures and flight disruptions. The students were returning to Toronto following a field course in Sri Lanka when their flight was forced to turn back mid-air.
Claire Haffner, a fourth-year biology student at Queen’s, described the chaotic scene. “After being in the air for an hour and a half, there was an announcement that the airspace was closed and we had to turn back,” she said. Upon returning to Doha’s airport, passengers disembarked into a “chaotic scene” with large crowds and long lines as they attempted to rebook flights.
The disruptions stem from recent major strikes by the United States and Israel on targets in Iran, followed by Iran’s retaliatory launch of missiles into Israel and neighboring Gulf countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Qatar. These actions prompted an immediate shutdown of airspace across the region.
“There was an initial panic among me and my classmates,” Haffner recounted. “Everybody rushed off the plane in a big mob… Everybody is dealing with it differently, but we’re all overwhelmed.”
Queen’s University confirmed it is in direct contact with faculty leaders accompanying the students. “We recognize that this situation may be distressing for the students and their families, and their safety and well-being is our top priority,” the university said in a statement. The university added that the group is safe and has access to 24-hour multilingual support through its partnership with International SOS, including assistance with flight arrangements.
Global Affairs Canada has updated its travel advisories for Canadians travelling to and from Gulf nations, warning of “ongoing military activity” in the region. Flights to and from Canada have experienced cancellations and delays as a result.
Despite the uncertainty, Haffner expressed a sense of cautious optimism. “We are in a safe place, the airport feels like a safe space. I am very lucky to be travelling with these classmates and my professor,” she said, adding that some students had purchased electronic SIM cards to maintain contact with family.
As of Saturday night, the group was informed they would not be departing Doha. They remain in the airport awaiting updates on when airspace will reopen and flights will resume.
