Emirates, Etihad Airways resume limited flight operations

BERLIN

The UAE-based airlines Emirates and Etihad Airways announced on Friday that they would resume limited flight operations from their main hubs.

The two airlines halted flights following the escalation of regional tensions with the launch of US and Israeli joint strikes on Iran on Saturday, as well as Iran's retaliation against Israel and the Gulf countries that host US assets.

However, with the gradual reopening of airspace, operational processes have begun to resume.

Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways said in a statement that it has prepared a limited flight schedule valid until March 19.

The airline will operate flights to around 70 destinations, including Frankfurt, London, and Paris.

Dubai-based Emirates also said that flights to 82 destinations will operate until further notice.

The statement emphasized that passengers transiting through Dubai will be allowed to travel only if their connecting flights are confirmed.

It also noted that passengers with existing reservations will be given priority on current flights, and those without confirmed tickets were asked not to go to the airport.

Both airlines said they are closely monitoring the security situation and that flight schedules may be updated depending on developments.

Meanwhile, a Lufthansa aircraft chartered by the German government brought German citizens in need of assistance from Gulf countries to Frankfurt on Thursday morning.

Germany's Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has announced that two additional evacuation flights will be operated as part of the plan.

*Writing by Serdar Dincel