Security Fears Prompt Airlines To Suspend UAE Flights
DUBAI, June 24 – Several international airlines have suspended flights to Dubai, one of the world's busiest aviation hubs, as regional tensions intensify following the escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict.
On Sunday, British Airways announced the suspension of its flights from London to both Dubai and Doha, citing 'recent events' as the reason. The airline assured affected passengers that a flexible rebooking policy is in place.
'Passengers scheduled to travel between now and June 24 may rebook for any flight up to and including July 6, free of charge, by contacting us directly,' the carrier stated.
Singapore Airlines has also temporarily halted its daily service between Singapore and Dubai until Wednesday. The airline said affected customers would either be rebooked on alternative flights or offered a full refund for the unused portion of their tickets.
Air Canada, which initially suspended its daily non-stop flights between Toronto and Dubai on June 18, confirmed the suspension will continue until at least July 3 as a "precautionary measure." The airline added that further extensions may follow pending a safety assessment conducted in coordination with governmental and regulatory authorities.
United Airlines, based in Chicago, has likewise suspended its route from Newark, New Jersey, to Dubai until July 3.
Meanwhile, Dutch carrier KLM is offering rebooking and refund options for passengers scheduled to fly between Amsterdam and Dubai from June 19 to June 29.
Amid the disruptions, Dubai Airports issued an advisory last week warning travelers of possible delays due to regional airspace restrictions.
'Flights operating out of DXB and DWC – Al Maktoum International – may experience disruptions. Please check with your airline for the latest flight status before heading to the airport,' the advisory stated on social media platform X.
Adding to the caution, the U.S. State Department issued a global security alert on Monday, urging American citizens to exercise increased vigilance while traveling abroad due to the potential for anti-U.S. demonstrations.
'The Department of State advises U.S. citizens worldwide to exercise increased caution,' the alert read. 'Please consult our Travel Advisories, country-specific information, and recent security alerts before planning travel.'
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