The UAE’s National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority, and the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), have brought forward their directive to suspend all inbound, outbound, and transit passenger flights in the UAE to today (March 25), it was announced. 

 

This decision has been made to limit the spread of the COVID-19 and to protect citizens, residents, and international travellers.

 

As a result, Etihad Airways will suspend all departures from Abu Dhabi International Airport immediately for an initial 14 days, subject to further directives by the relevant authorities. All Etihad Airways aircraft currently outside the UAE will continue to operate to Abu Dhabi as planned, with the final arrival on March 25, carrying passengers permitted to enter the UAE under current government imposed restrictions.

 

"We deeply regret any inconvenience and disruption this will cause our customers during this challenging period. Our teams will continue to make every effort to assist its customers and to advise them of their options," the carrier said in a statement.

 

All guests affected by the temporary flight suspension are advised to visit etihad.com/travelalerts to understand their rebooking options.

 

Etihad Airways continues to follow UAE and international government and regulatory authority directives and is applying a contingency plan to assist affected customers. The airline will announce the resumption of services through its usual channels once restrictions are lifted. - TradeArabia News Service