Kuwait: drone hits Kuwait airport, several staff injured
TL;DR
A drone attack on Kuwait's Ali Al-Salem Air Base on February 28, 2026, caused significant runway damage and led to regional airspace closures, disrupting over 200 flights and increasing airline costs. Kuwait has closed its airspace, impacting major hubs like Dubai and prompting carriers to reroute, with economic implications for global aviation and supply chains. The government asserts its right to self-defense, while IATA monitors the situation for potential long-term effects.
Kuwait: drone hits Kuwait airport, several staff injured
Kuwait Air Base Targeted in Missile Attack; Regional Aviation Disruptions Intensify
Kuwait’s Ali Al-Salem Air Base, hosting Italian military personnel, was struck by ballistic missile attacks on February 28, 2026, according to reports. While no injuries were reported at the Italian base, the strikes caused "significant damage" to the runway, disrupting operations. Kuwait’s air defenses reportedly intercepted some incoming missiles, though the extent of infrastructure damage remains under assessment.
The attack occurred amid escalating regional tensions following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran earlier that day. In response, Kuwait joined neighboring countries in closing its airspace to commercial flights, exacerbating disruptions across the Middle East. Aviation data indicates over 200 canceled flights regionally, with Dubai International Airport (DXB) and other major hubs grinding to a halt. Airlines including Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways have suspended or rerouted services, while long-haul carriers face increased fuel costs due to detours around conflict zones.
Economic implications are mounting. The closure of key airspace routes has forced airlines to adopt suboptimal flight paths, raising operational expenses. For instance, Gulf carriers are reportedly incurring up to $7,500 additional costs per flight hour due to extended routes. Analysts warn that prolonged instability could further strain airline profitability and disrupt global supply chains, particularly given the region's role as a critical overflight corridor for transcontinental travel.
Kuwait's government has emphasized its commitment to self-defense, with Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi stating the country "reserves the right to respond" to future threats. Meanwhile, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has urged stakeholders to monitor developments closely, as prolonged closures could ripple through global aviation markets.
As of press time, the situation remains fluid, with regional authorities prioritizing security over economic continuity. Investors are advised to track updates on airspace reopenings and potential insurance claims related to infrastructure damage.
