Emirates, flydubai cancel flights to Baghdad after Iran strikes on US bases in Iraq
Airlines will make further operational changes if required
Dubai: Emirates airline and flydubai have cancelled flights to Baghdad in the wake of last night’s Iranian missile attack on US bases in Iraq, while Etihad and Air Arabia reported no changes.
An Emirates spokesperson said, “Emirates flights EK 943 from Dubai to Baghdad and flight EK 944 from Baghdad to Dubai on 8 January have been cancelled for operational reasons.
“We are carefully monitoring the developments and are in close contact with the relevant government authorities with regards to our flight operations, and will make further operational changes if required.
“As always, the safety of our passengers, crew and aircraft is our number one priority and will not be compromised,” the spokesperson added.
A flydubai spokesperson also said, “flydubai has cancelled its flight later today to Baghdad. We are directly contacting passengers who have been affected. Our flights to Basra and Najaf this morning will operate. We are liaising with the relevant authorities and continue to monitor the situation closely.”
Regarding flightpaths, the spokesperson added, “flydubai operates within flight paths approved by our regulator. We continue to monitor the situation and will make any changes, if necessary, in consultation with the relevant authorities.”
An Air Arabia spokesperson, said, “Air Arabia does not have any scheduled flights to Baghdad today. We are closely monitoring the developments and are in close contact with the relevant authorities.”
A statement from Etihad Airways said, "Etihad Airways is continuing to operate normally.
"The safety of passengers and employees is the highest priority for Etihad, which is in constant contact with regulatory authorities.
"The airline has robust contingency plans in place in case of changes to air routes. However, guests wishing to change their travel arrangements in the current climate are encouraged to contact the Etihad Airways Contact Centre on (+971) 600 555 666, or their travel agents."
Meanwhile, the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has instructed national airlines, recommending them to evaluate potential risks in areas that may endanger flight operations. GCAA recommended national carriers to take caution and be careful due to the current situations in the region. In a statement issued Wednesday, GCAA said it continues to assess and follow the situation and will take appropriate measures in due course.