Escalating tensions in the Middle East are continuing to disrupt global supply chains, with significant impacts on air freight, ocean freight and regional logistics operations. At AMCO, we are closely monitoring developments and working with our carrier partners to protect service continuity – maintaining stable and reliable supply chains for the businesses that depend on us.

AIRSPACE RESTRICTIONS CREATING AIR FREIGHT DISRUPTION

Military escalation across the region has prompted aviation authorities to impose airspace restrictions and temporary closures across several key Middle Eastern corridors. As a result, airlines have suspended certain services, rerouted aircraft, and introduced enhanced security procedures.

Major Gulf hub airports have reported:

• Flight cancellations and diversions
• Reduced airline capacity on selected routes
• Additional security and ground-handling checks
• Extended transit and connection times for cargo

These changes are already affecting international freight networks, particularly across Asia–Middle East and Far East–Europe trade lanes.

Airlines are also reviewing operational risk levels, which may lead to additional schedule adjustments at short notice. Customers should expect potential delays, limited cargo space availability, and short-term rate volatility as capacity tightens.

GLOBAL AIR FREIGHT CAPACITY UNDER PRESSURE

The disruption in Middle Eastern airspace is beginning to ripple across the wider global air freight network. Aircraft redeployments and longer routing patterns are reducing available capacity on several key trade lanes.

As a result, shippers may see:

• Reduced air freight capacity globally
• Upward pressure on freight rates
• Possible war risk surcharges introduced by airlines
• Increased fuel surcharges if geopolitical tensions affect oil prices

AMCO’s air freight teams are working closely with airline partners to secure capacity and offer alternative routing options where necessary.

STRAIT OF HORMUZ CLOSURE IMPACTING OCEAN FREIGHT

The situation is also affecting ocean freight operations. Security concerns have led to the suspension of vessel movements through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategically important shipping routes.

Ocean carriers are adjusting sailing schedules and rerouting vessels where possible, while ports across the Arabian Gulf are implementing additional safety precautions for ships and crews.

These developments may result in:

• Sailing delays and route diversions
• Congestion at alternative ports
• Changes to vessel schedules across affected services

AMCO’s ocean freight specialists are in continuous contact with shipping lines to assess impacts and maintain supply chain continuity wherever possible.

ROAD FREIGHT AND CONTRACT LOGISTICS OPERATIONS

Road freight movements across the region are largely continuing at present, although conditions remain fluid.

Customers may experience:

• Border congestion
• Customs clearance delays
• Transit time variability due to security checks or alternative routing

AMCO warehousing and distribution services are continuing, although some irregularity in inbound and outbound flows may occur as the situation evolves.

WHAT AMCO CAN DO FOR YOU

AMCO ACTIVATES CONTINGENCY PLANNING

In response to the disruption, AMCO has implemented contingency measures designed to support customer supply chains, including:

• Securing available capacity allocations where possible
• Diversifying carrier options across alternative gateways
• Protecting service continuity on key Far East trade lanes
• Supporting Middle East shipments through flexible routing solutions
• Providing proactive updates on rate and surcharge developments

Our global teams are working around the clock to monitor developments and deliver tailored logistics solutions based on shipment urgency and cargo profile.

RECOMMENDED ACTIONS FOR CUSTOMERS

To help maintain supply chain stability during this period, AMCO recommends that customers:

• Share updated shipment forecasts to support capacity planning
• Confirm bookings as early as possible to secure space
• Check insurance coverage for shipments routed through the region
• Consider flexible routing and transit time alternatives
• Review safety stock levels in case of port congestion or delays
• Contact their AMCO representative for shipment-specific guidance

ONGOING MONITORING

The situation in the Middle East remains highly dynamic. AMCO will continue to monitor developments closely and provide updates as new information becomes available.

Customers with cargo already in transit or with planned shipments through the region are encouraged to speak with their usual AMCO contact for tailored support.

Our teams remain focused on protecting supply chain continuity and helping customers navigate the challenges created by this evolving geopolitical situation.

GET IN TOUCH

By partnering with AMCO, you can leverage our expertise to streamline your supply chain operations, boost efficiency, and gain a competitive edge.

Contact AMCO today. Together, we’ll keep your business running smoothly!