German airline Lufthansa has cancelled numerous flights to the Middle East — to Abu Dhabi, Amman (Jordan), and Muscat (Oman) — through October 24. Flights to Dubai and Tel Aviv have been cancelled only through May 31, though that deadline may yet be extended, Bild reports.

Passengers on cancelled flights will be able to rebook free of charge or receive a full refund. Those who booked through travel agencies will need to contact them directly.

Cancellations spanning such a lengthy period came as a surprise, as flights had previously typically been cancelled only shortly before departure. Lufthansa explains the decision as necessary to ensure reliable flight planning and crew scheduling.