Severe Weather Disrupts UAE–India Flights

UAE–India Air Travel Disrupted by Severe Weather

The stormy weather on April 11 caused significant disruptions in air traffic between India and the United Arab Emirates. Severe dust storms and thunderstorms led to delays for several flights, with some being rerouted to different airports. The most notable case was the Etihad Airways flight from Abu Dhabi to Delhi, which was ultimately diverted to Jaipur.

Etihad Airways: Flight Diversions and Delays

The Etihad Airways flight EY216, which departed from Abu Dhabi's Zayed International Airport at 2:42 PM (UAE time), was originally heading to Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport. However, due to adverse weather conditions, it ended up landing at Jaipur airport. According to an official statement from the airline, safety was the primary concern, making the flight diversion unavoidable.

The return flight, EY217, also experienced delays, as Delhi airport's operations were significantly disrupted by the dust storm with strong wind gusts. Etihad emphasized that the crew is doing everything possible to inform and assist passengers and ensure the continuation of their journey as quickly as possible.

Emirates and Air Arabia: Altered Departures and Arrivals

The Emirates airline's EK515 flight on the Delhi–Dubai route is scheduled for 10 PM, while the Dubai–Delhi EK512 flight is planned to depart at 9:40 PM. As of now, the airline has not announced any flight diversions, but minor delays might still occur due to airport conditions.

The Sharjah-based Air Arabia was also affected by delays. The G9466 flight from Delhi to Sharjah was originally set to depart at 6:35 PM but eventually took off at 8:20 PM and is expected to arrive at 10 PM. The G9465 flight from Sharjah to Delhi departed at 1:05 PM and landed at 7:35 PM instead of the planned 5:55 PM. Further delays are anticipated in the evening.

IndiGo and Air India: Warnings and Recommendations

The low-cost airline IndiGo highlighted that although the dust storm has passed, its consequences continue to impact Delhi and Jaipur airports. Passengers are advised to regularly check their flight information and use rebooking options if necessary.

India's national airline, Air India, issued similar information. According to Air India, the stormy weather, particularly strong winds and thunderstorms, significantly affects the operations of airports in the northern Indian region. Some flights have been diverted or delayed, and passengers are encouraged to go to the airport only after checking the updated schedule.

Delhi Airport: Official Statement

At 7:15 PM (UAE time 5:45 PM), Delhi International Airport issued an official warning, stating that due to adverse weather conditions, several flight schedules might be altered. Passengers were urged to contact the airlines directly for the current status.

Summary

The capricious nature of the weather can seriously affect not just ground transport but air traffic as well – especially at busy airports like Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport. The current situation clearly shows how essential continued awareness and flexibility are for travelers. Airlines are doing everything possible for passenger safety and comfort, yet coping with unexpected conditions requires cooperation and patience.

Anyone planning to travel from the UAE to Delhi, Jaipur, or other northern Indian cities in the near future is advised to check their flight status multiple times before departure and use rebooking options promptly if needed.

(Source of the article: Official statement from Delhi Airport.)