Middle East flight disruptions alert issued by UAE in response to Israel-Iran escalation
Heads up! Travel chaos in Middle East due to escalating tensions
Hey there! The UAE has put out a travel advisory, urging all its citizens, residents, and visitors to stay in the loop regarding flight schedules. The ongoing regional conflict is causing turbulence across Middle Eastern air travel.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) published the advisory over the weekend, focusing on UAE nationals currently residing in or traveling to Jordan, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, Iran, and Israel. Given the ever-changing security situation, travelers are expected to be on high alert and frequently check flight statuses.
For those registered with the 'Twajudi' service, an emergency consular registration system run by the UAE, staying updated and getting help during emergencies is easier than ever. UAE citizens in affected countries are encouraged to register and contact the Ministry at 0097180024 in case of emergencies.
Airline actions
The advisory follows widespread flight cancellations and rerouting by Emirates and Etihad Airways, the UAE's two major carriers, due to the increasing instability and temporary airspace closures.
Emirates has suspended flights to and from Iraq, Iran, Jordan, and Lebanon between June 13 and 15. Destinations affected include Basra, Baghdad, Tehran, Amman, and Beirut. Passengers connecting through Dubai to these cities, even those with onward connections via flydubai, are advised not to travel until further notice.
Emirates passengers can check their flight status at emirates.com, rebook their tickets via Emirates offices or travel agents, or update their contact details via the "Manage Your Booking" portal.
Meanwhile, Etihad Airways has suspended services on several fronts due to regional airspace restrictions:
- June 14-16: Flights between Abu Dhabi and Tel Aviv, and Abu Dhabi and Amman, are suspended
- June 14: Flights between Abu Dhabi and Beirut (EY583/EY584) are canceled
- Other flights are being rerouted, and passengers transiting through Abu Dhabi to the affected destinations will not be allowed to board at their original departure points.
Etihad passengers are advised to check updates at etihad.com or call +971 600 555 666.
Both airlines emphasized passenger safety is their utmost priority, and travelers should remain vigilant for further cancellations and changes.
Middle Eastern Airspace
The disruptions were sparked by the flare-up between Israel and Iran, causing Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon to close their airspace on Friday, resulting in widespread cancellations and groundings of international flights.
By Saturday, officials in all three countries confirmed the reopening of their airspace:
- Jordan reopened its airspace at 7:30 am (0430 GMT), as reported by Haitham Misto, Chairman of the Jordanian Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission.
- Lebanon resumed flights at 10:00 am (0700 GMT) according to Fayez Rassamni, Lebanon's Transport Minister.
- Syria also announced a similar reopening for civilian air traffic.
The situation remains fluid, and travelers must stay updated via official airline channels and government advisories.
Stay safe out there, and don't forget to check your flight status before heading to the airport!
- The ongoing regional conflict, specifically between Israel and Iran, has resulted in airspace closures in Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon, causing widespread disruptions to Middle Eastern air travel.
- Amidst the turbulent news surrounding war-and-conflicts, travelers should take note of the political implications, as the ongoing situation is affecting business operations, including flight schedules of major airlines like Emirates and Etihad.
- In the midst of the uncertain general-news environment, it is crucial for travelers to remain cognizant of local news and updates related to war-and-conflicts and politics, especially when planning travel to the Middle East, to ensure a safer journey.
