Emirates has now gained permission from UAE authorities to begin flying passengers out of the country from 6th April 2020. Initially destinations will include London Heathrow, Frankfurt, Paris, Zurich and Brussels.
As COVID-19 became a global issue, airports across the world were forced to close and hundreds of flights were suspended. Such was the case for major international airports in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, resulting in thousands of stranded holidaymakers as travel restrictions were put in place.
However, in a message posted on social media platform Twitter, Emirates Group CEO and chairman, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum tweeted:
“From 6 April, these flights will initially carry travellers outbound from the UAE. Details will be announced soon. Looking (sic) forward to the gradual resumption of passenger services in line with lifting of travel and operational restrictions, including assurance of health measures to safeguard our people and customers.”
Holidaymakers are being urged to check before they travel as destinations will have strict measures in place for those returning back to their home countries. In many cases, travellers will be asked to self-isolate for a period of 14-days.
According to an update on Etihad Airways website, repatriation flights will be made available on 5th April 2020. Services will be limited, initially being used,
“to help foreign citizens return home from Abu Dhabi. All other flights to, from and via Abu Dhabi have been temporarily suspended.”
Flights will begin with Seoul Incheon and gradually increase to Manila, Singapore, Bangkok, Jakarta, Melbourne, Jakarta and Amsterdam. More details can be found on Etihad’s website.
Passengers who are currently stranded abroad due to the coronavirus pandemic, should contact their airline directly to find out more information regarding repatriation flights. Holidaymakers are also encouraged to get in touch with their tour operators to arrange alternative travel.
