Etihad Airways extends Abu Dhabi flights suspensions until March 6 as disruptions continue

Etihad Airways
Caption: Etihad Airways suspends Abu Dhabi flights until March 6 while Zayed International Airport gradually resumes limited operations supporting thousands of passengers.
Source: File photo for illustrative purpose


ABU DHABIEtihad Airways has suspended all flights to and from Abu Dhabi until 06:00 UAE time on Friday, March 6, as ongoing airspace closures continue to disrupt flight schedules across the region.

The airline confirmed that the temporary suspension affects all services operating through Abu Dhabi. Travellers booked on Etihad flights until March 10 have been offered the option to request a full refund through the airline’s website or by contacting their travel agent.

Etihad has urged passengers to check the latest flight status before travelling to the airport as schedules may change while restrictions remain in place. The airline continues to monitor the evolving airspace situation and will update operations as conditions allow.

The disruption has affected connectivity through Abu Dhabi, prompting airlines and airport authorities to coordinate contingency plans for passengers whose travel plans were impacted.

Limited flights from Abu Dhabi airport

Meanwhile, limited flight operations have resumed at Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi following several days of disruption, with authorities implementing a wide support network to assist affected travellers across the emirate.

Airport authorities confirmed that the phased restart of flights was carried out in coordination with the Emergencies, Crises and Disasters Management Center in Abu Dhabi. The resumption follows intensive collaboration between government agencies, airlines and hospitality providers aimed at restoring connectivity while prioritising passenger safety.

The controlled restart of operations represents an important step toward stabilising travel through one of the region’s busiest aviation hubs, even as airlines continue to adjust schedules.

During the disruption, authorities mobilised significant resources to support passengers whose journeys were affected. More than 4,300 complimentary hotel rooms were arranged across 74 hotels in Abu Dhabi to accommodate approximately 7,000 travellers while flight schedules were being reorganised.

Hospitality providers throughout the emirate worked closely with airport authorities to ensure passengers had access to accommodation and essential services during extended waiting periods.

Authorities also implemented additional support measures for stranded passengers. Shuttle services were arranged to transport travellers between hotels and the airport, while refreshments, hospitality services and retail vouchers were distributed to assist passengers during the disruption.

Medical support services were also made available to provide care where needed, ensuring travellers had access to assistance throughout the recovery period.

The response involved cooperation between multiple government entities and private sector partners across Abu Dhabi, creating a coordinated network designed to support passengers while flight operations gradually resumed.

Airport authorities said passenger wellbeing remained a priority throughout the disruption and recovery phase. Officials also advised travellers to check directly with their airlines for the latest flight information before heading to the airport.

Passengers holding confirmed tickets have been asked to contact their airlines for updated schedules and departure instructions, while travellers are encouraged to arrive at Zayed International Airport only after receiving confirmation of their departure timing.