UAE-based airlines have announced extended flight cancellations to Beirut in response to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, which has escalated significantly in recent days.
The situation has prompted major airlines in the region to prioritize passenger safety and adapt their operations accordingly.
Dubai’s Emirates Airlines confirmed on Thursday that all flights to Beirut have been cancelled until October 1.
The airline stated that it will not accept customers traveling to or from Beirut at their points of origin, particularly affecting passengers transiting through Dubai.
“We continue to closely monitor the situation in Lebanon and are in contact with the relevant authorities regarding developments,” the airline said in a statement.
“The safety of our guests and crew is our number one priority and we regret any inconvenience caused by this cancellation.”
Similarly, Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways has extended its flight suspensions to and from Beirut until September 29.
Passengers with connections through Abu Dhabi to Beirut will not be accepted unless they have made alternative travel arrangements from the emirate.
Etihad also echoed Emirates’ commitment to passenger safety, emphasizing the need to stay updated on the evolving situation.
In addition, Air Arabia, operating from Sharjah International Airport, has cancelled its flights to Beirut until September 29.
Flydubai has also suspended its operations between Dubai International Airport and Beirut until September 27.
Passengers with existing bookings on Flydubai are being contacted for rebooking or refund options and are advised to reach out to the airline’s call center for assistance.
The travel disruptions come as violence continues to escalate in Lebanon, with Israeli airstrikes reported on Wednesday resulting in at least 72 fatalities, as compiled by Reuters from statements by the Lebanese health ministry.
The ministry further indicated that over 223 individuals have been wounded amid the conflict.
In response to the ongoing hostilities, the Israeli military announced that it targeted approximately 75 Hezbollah sites in Lebanon overnight, which included several ammunition depots belonging to the armed group.
In light of the escalating conflict, the United States, France, and several allied nations have urged an immediate 21-day ceasefire across the Israel-Lebanon border, while also advocating for a cessation of hostilities in Gaza.
This call for a ceasefire was a significant topic of discussion during recent United Nations meetings.
As airlines navigate the challenges posed by the conflict, they have urged affected passengers to reach out for assistance. Emirates has advised customers impacted by the flight cancellations to contact their booking agents for alternative travel arrangements.
Those who booked directly with the airline are encouraged to contact Emirates’ customer service for support.
Additionally, passengers are reminded to update their contact information through the airline’s “Manage Your Booking” feature on its website to receive timely updates regarding their travel plans.
With the situation in Lebanon remaining volatile, travelers are advised to stay informed and monitor their airline’s communications for further updates as developments unfold.