IATA Warns Kuwait Airport Recovery Could Take a Year After Strike Damage

Kuwait’s main international airport terminal could face significant disruptions for up to a year following recent strike-related damage, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

Speaking at the 82nd Annual General Meeting and World Air Transport Summit in Rio de Janeiro, IATA Regional Vice-President for Africa and the Middle East, Kamil Alawadhi, said initial assessments suggest the damage to the terminal is severe. He noted that authorities are still evaluating the full extent of the destruction, but visible structural damage indicates a lengthy recovery process.

The affected terminal handled the majority of foreign airlines operating in and out of Kuwait. Currently, only Kuwait Airways and Jazeera Airways are able to maintain operations through their separate terminals, while authorities explore options to accommodate other carriers.

Industry officials have suggested accelerating work on Kuwait’s new Terminal 2 project or temporarily allowing foreign airlines to use existing terminals reserved for national carriers. Both Kuwait Airways and Jazeera Airways have resumed operations after implementing emergency procedures and receiving security clearances.

The incident highlights growing concerns within the aviation sector as the ongoing regional conflict increasingly impacts airport infrastructure, fuel facilities, and airline operations across the Gulf. Airlines have also been forced to adjust schedules due to airspace restrictions and operational uncertainties.

IATA further warned that travelers may continue to face elevated airfares as airlines struggle with rising fuel costs and logistical challenges. Despite these pressures, the organization said Gulf carriers remain resilient and capable of adapting to disruptions through their extensive regional networks.

No official timeline has yet been announced by Kuwaiti authorities regarding the terminal’s full restoration.