The world’s skies are telling a story of growing unrest on the ground. A new air traffic snapshot released by Flightradar24 shows three large, empty zones where planes are currently avoiding flying. These airspace gaps are over Iran, Ukraine, and Tibet, regions currently linked to high geopolitical tensions.
“This is what global air traffic looks like right now. Three clear gaps are limiting air traffic,” Flightradar24 reported.
This is what global air traffic looks like right now. Three clear gaps are limiting air traffic. pic.twitter.com/X7dV9KZv9f
— Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) June 17, 2025
Most changes were seen over Iran, shortly after Israel launched a wave of missile attacks on June 13. The strikes reportedly targeted Iranian nuclear facilities, missile bases, and top military leaders.
Just after the attacks began, a time-lapse video shared by Flightradar24 captured how civilian aircraft began to steer clear of Iranian skies. The skies over the country were rapidly emptied as commercial flights rerouted, curving away from the region to avoid danger.
This sudden shift in air traffic shows how serious the threat was. With Israeli drones and missiles in the air, airlines moved quickly to find safer paths.
Such major rerouting can have broader effects across the airline industry. Longer flight paths could lead to delays, extended flight times, and rising fuel costs for airlines already facing pressure.
Explosions reported in Tehran, Karaj
The conflict between Iran and Israel escalated on June 13, when Israel reportedly started the strikes. According to local media reports, loud explosions were heard in Iran’s capital, Tehran, and also in Karaj, a city located to the west.
Israel has reportedly asked civilians in Tehran to evacuate, as it plans more attacks on military sites inside Iran.
The three no-fly zones — Iran, Ukraine, and Tibet — each show rising conflict or military activity. Ukraine continues to face Russian aggression, while airspace over Tibet remains sensitive due to ongoing military presence and geopolitical concerns.