Emirates Extends flight suspension between Dubai and Tel Aviv until October 26
After much consideration, Emirates has extended the time that it would not be providing service to or from the Israeli city of Tel Aviv. All flights to and from Tel Aviv have been temporarily suspended by the Dubai-based airline until October 26. Initial flight cancellations extended through the 20th of October, reflecting the persistent difficulties faced by UAE-based airlines due to the conflict between Israel and Palestine.
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Emirates' Flight Suspension Extension
UAE-based airlines like Emirates have been adjusting their procedures in light of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine. Flight cancellations and schedule delays are just two examples of the varied responses to these changes. While some aircraft are already flying again, others are still unable to take off until further notice.
Emirates' Safety Priority
Emirates emphasized its commitment to closely monitoring the situation in Israel and maintaining close contact with relevant authorities. The safety of passengers, crew, and stakeholders remains the airline's top priority.
Passenger Implications
Emirates passengers who had onward connections booked to Tel Aviv on flights that have now been canceled would not be permitted to proceed from their place of origin "until further notice.
Emirates recommends that clients who have been impacted get in touch with the booking agencies they used to make their reservations in order to obtain information on alternatives, refunds, cancellations, or rebooking of flight schedules. Importantly, the airline has made the decision to not impose any fees associated with ticket changes or cancellations for tickets that were purchased on or before October 11, 2023, and are valid for travel until November 30.
Previous Flight Suspension
Emirates had initially suspended flights to Israel on October 13, with the last Tel Aviv-Dubai flight taking place on October 12.
Other UAE Carriers
Meanwhile, another Dubai-based carrier, flydubai, indicated that its flights FZ 1549/1550 and FZ 1209/1210 to Israel's Ben Gurion Airport are currently operating according to schedule. The airline stated that it continues to monitor the situation closely and is adjusting its schedule in response to developments. The carrier is also maintaining communication with relevant authorities regarding ongoing developments.
Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways, however, confirmed that it is operating flights to Israel as scheduled, suggesting a variation in flight operations among UAE carriers in response to the situation in Israel.