Etihad Airways resumes limited Abu Dhabi flights amid regional airspace crisis
Repatriation missions cleared under strict safety approvals
ABU DHABI – Flights operated by Etihad Airways have partially resumed under tightly controlled conditions, even as the airline keeps all scheduled commercial services to and from Abu Dhabi suspended due to ongoing regional tensions.
The UAE’s national flag-carrier confirmed that only select repositioning, cargo and repatriation flights are currently permitted, subject to coordination with UAE authorities and strict operational approvals.
The move comes as the region’s aviation sector begins a cautious recovery following widespread airspace closures.
Limited operations
In its latest update, the airline stressed that normal passenger services remain cancelled despite the limited activity. The suspension follows days of disruption triggered by military escalation involving the United States, Israel and Iran, which led multiple countries to partially close their airspace.
Earlier, Etihad had temporarily halted departures from Zayed International Airport, cancelling arrivals scheduled before the afternoon cut-off on March 1. Flights already en route were redirected where required.
Affected passengers have been contacted directly and provided rebooking support and hotel accommodation when necessary.
Passenger advisory
The airline continues to urge travellers to check their flight status before leaving for the airport and to ensure contact details in bookings are up to date. Guests connecting via Abu Dhabi are not permitted to board if their onward sector has been cancelled.
The General Civil Aviation Authority said it is closely coordinating with airports and airlines to monitor the orderly resumption of services.
Authorities described the situation as fluid, noting further adjustments may be required as regional developments evolve.