Emirates SkyCargo has warned of possible payload constraints as its aircraft take on additional fuel to accommodate longer flight routes amid ongoing conflict and geopolitical instability in the Middle East.

The Dubai-headquartered cargo carrier made the warning as it also announced flight suspensions and an embargo on cargo to Iran and Iraq.

"Due to ongoing geopolitical instability in the region, additional fuel is being uplifted on flights departing from Dubai. This may result in payload constraints and shipment offloads," Emirates SkyCargo said in statement on June 23.

"We appreciate your understanding as our teams work diligently to minimise disruptions and ensure shipments are delivered as soon as possible," the carrier added. 

Emirates SkyCargo has implemented additional measures beyond extra fuel uplift in response to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran.

Emirates, like most carriers, has imposed an embargo on operations to Iran and Iraq, with flights to Tehran, Baghdad, Erbil and Basra suspended through at least June 30.

"Embargo on cargo remains in place for Iran (Tehran) and Iraq (Baghdad, Erbil and Basra) until June 30, 2025," Emirates SkyCargo said in the statement.

Airline operations across the Middle East have been widely disrupted since Israel and Iran began exchanging missile strikes on June 13.

In response, carriers have rerouted flights to avoid airspace over Iran, Iraq, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon and Kuwait, prompting longer flight paths and increased fuel loads. Many airlines have also imposed cargo embargoes on affected countries amid ongoing security concerns.