Airlines in the Middle East are slowly restarting operations after major disruptions in regional airspace. Several carriers have announced limited Flights while security concerns continue.
UAE-based airlines are trying to help thousands of stranded travelers return home. However, air travel across the region remains unstable due to the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
Etihad Airways confirmed that it will resume a limited schedule of Flights until March 19. The airline will operate services from Abu Dhabi to around 70 international destinations.
These Flights will connect passengers to cities including London, Paris, Frankfurt, Delhi, New York, Toronto, and Tel Aviv. The airline said operations will remain limited while safety conditions are monitored.
At the same time, Emirates also restarted a reduced number of Flights from Dubai. The airline is currently flying to 82 destinations worldwide. However, the schedule remains smaller than usual.
Passengers transiting through Dubai can only travel if their connecting Flights are confirmed to operate. Airlines are trying to avoid further disruptions for travelers.
Airspace closures across parts of the Middle East have caused thousands of flight cancellations. Safety concerns about missile and drone activity forced many airlines to suspend normal operations.
According to flight tracking data, traffic at Dubai International Airport has improved slightly. However, operations are still far below normal levels.
Government authorities are also helping their citizens return home. Several countries have arranged evacuation Flights or secured seats on limited commercial services.
One government-chartered flight sent by France had to turn back due to missile activity in the region. Officials said the situation shows how difficult evacuation operations have become.
Britain also operated a repatriation flight from Oman. The aircraft landed at London Stansted Airport after earlier delays.
Airlines outside the region are also trying to help travelers. Malaysia Airlines announced extra Flights from Kuala Lumpur to London and Paris. SriLankan Airlines also planned an additional flight from Colombo to London.
Meanwhile, aviation companies are facing rising costs. Jet fuel prices recently reached record levels due to supply concerns in the Middle East.
Higher fuel costs and disrupted routes are creating financial pressure for airlines worldwide. Aviation experts say the situation may continue if regional tensions remain high.
Passengers trying to leave the Middle East have also reported travel chaos. Some travelers paid large amounts of money to secure seats on available Flights.
In other related news also read Saudi Airline Restarts Iranian Pilgrim Flights After a Decade
For now, airlines will continue operating limited Flights while closely monitoring security conditions in the region.
