As tensions in the Middle East escalate, several airlines have made significant adjustments to their flight schedules, particularly affecting routes between the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Kuwait, and parts of Saudi Arabia. While the majority of airline operations remain intact, passengers are urged to verify their flight statuses prior to heading to the airport. These disruptions are primarily attributed to ongoing security concerns and operational issues related to airspace management, as reported by Gulf News.
Over the weekend, multiple UAE carriers suspended flights to and from Kuwait. Notably, Etihad Airways cancelled flights EY653 and EY654 between Abu Dhabi's Zayed International Airport and
Emirates Airlines also announced the cancellation of eight flights between Dubai and Kuwait, impacting services EK853, EK855, EK857, and EK860 from Dubai, as well as EK854, EK856, EK858, and EK860 from Kuwait. Additionally, Air Arabia has suspended several flights connecting Sharjah and Abu Dhabi with Kuwait, including services G9068, G9124, and G9121 from Sharjah, and 3L020 and 3L022 from Abu Dhabi. Despite these cancellations, Air Arabia continues to operate its broader network, although select routes to Kuwait and Saudi Arabia remain affected.
Flight operations at Abha International Airport in Saudi Arabia have also been disrupted, with flydubai confirming the cancellation of flight FZ811 between Dubai and Abha. However, flight FZ815 is still operating as scheduled. Domestic flights within Saudi Arabia connecting Abha to major cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Medina, and Tabuk continue to function normally.
The flight disruptions are a direct response to heightened regional tensions, particularly following reported threats from Iranian drones that led Kuwait to temporarily suspend take-offs and landings at Kuwait International Airport. In light of these developments, airlines have been revising their schedules. Despite the challenges, UAE carriers, including Emirates, Etihad, flydubai, and Air Arabia, are maintaining most of their operations. Passengers are advised to check their flight status with their respective airlines, arrive early at airports, and stay informed about any delays or cancellations.
