The airline Etihad Airways has suspended all flights to and from Abu Dhabi until 06:00 UAE time on Friday, March 6, as ongoing airspace closures across parts of the Middle East continue to disrupt aviation operations in the region. In an advisory posted on social media, the Abu Dhabi-based carrier said the decision follows continuing restrictions in regional airspace, which have forced airlines to adjust schedules and temporarily halt operations on several routes.
The airline confirmed that the closures are affecting its flight schedules significantly, prompting the suspension of all passenger services to and from its main hub until the specified time.
Passengers asked not to travel to the airport
Etihad has urged passengers and members of the public not to travel to the airport unless they have been directly contacted by the airline and have confirmed travel documentation.
According to the airline, access to the airport will be restricted for individuals without confirmed tickets or travel details during the disruption period.
“Guests and members of the public are advised not to travel to the airport unless they have been contacted directly by Etihad and provided with confirmed ticket details,” the airline said in its advisory.
Travellers who have upcoming bookings have been advised to check the status of their flights on the airline’s website and wait for further communication from Etihad before heading to the airport.
Limited options for affected passengers
With flights suspended and schedules changing frequently, Etihad has advised affected passengers to contact the airline’s call centre or live chat service to explore alternative travel arrangements.
Passengers who purchased tickets through third-party travel agents have been asked to contact their booking providers directly for assistance with rebooking or itinerary changes.
The airline said it is working to provide travellers with the best possible options given the evolving operational situation.
Regional crisis continues to disrupt aviation
The disruption comes as airlines across the Middle East grapple with widespread airspace closures and flight restrictions following recent geopolitical tensions in the region.
In the meantime, some countries have also put in place restrictions on the use of their airspace, which has resulted in the cancellation of flights by some of the airlines for safety reasons.
And the closures have taken place in one of the world’s busiest routes that link Europe, Asia, and the Gulf.
Travellers advised to monitor updates
Etihad said it is closely monitoring the situation and will continue to update its operational schedule depending on how the regional situation evolves.
Passengers are advised to frequently check the status of flights online as well as emails regarding the cancellation, delay, or rescheduling of the flights.
The airline has reiterated that the safety of the passengers remains its primary concern, further noting that it values the patience of the customers in the face of the challenge. As the situation continues to evolve, the respective authorities will continue to review the conditions, and make necessary adjustments to the flight schedule.
