Mysterious disappearance of Chinese cargo flights near Iran raises questions
Three Chinese-operated Boeing 747 cargo jets have vanished from radar near Iranian airspace under unusual circumstances, raising speculation about their potential destination and cargo, particularly given heightened tensions in the Middle East.
The flights, all operated by Luxembourg-based Cargolux but originating from different cities in China (mainland, coastal, and Shanghai), departed consecutively following Israel’s airstrike on Iran on June 13.
Tracking data shows anomalies
According to flight tracking data reported by The Daily Telegraph (UK) and Fox News (US), the planes followed an identical westward route: crossing northern China, then traversing Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan.
As the aircraft approached the Iranian border, they disappeared from radar tracking systems. While their flight plans listed Luxembourg as the final destination, none of the planes ever entered European airspace, confirming they did not reach their stated endpoint.
Military transport capabilities suspected
This unusual behaviour has prompted analysts to question the flights’ true purpose. Aviation experts familiar with cargo operations noted to media outlets that the Boeing 747 freighter is a type commonly used for transporting military equipment or under government contracts.
They point to the critical strategic and economic relationship between China and Iran. Iran supplies China with a substantial portion of its oil – up to 2 million barrels per day – representing a vital energy source for Beijing.
Analysts suggest China has a strong incentive to support the stability of the Iranian regime, as turmoil could significantly disrupt these crucial energy supplies and broader Chinese interests in the region.
Airline’s limited response fuels speculation
In response to inquiries, Cargolux, the airline operating the flights, stated only that its aircraft “did not enter Iranian airspace.”
The company declined to comment on the nature of the cargo being transported or to explain why the flights disappeared from tracking systems and failed to proceed to Luxembourg as scheduled.
Some analysts, like Tuvia Gering of the Atlantic Council, offered alternative explanations. Gering suggested the planes might have simply landed for an intermediate stop somewhere in Central Asia, noting Cargolux runs regular cargo services between China and Europe.
However, the reported gaps in flight data and radar tracking near the sensitive Iranian border have kept speculation alive that the aircraft may have diverted into Iran.
yogaesoteric
June 30, 2025
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