Emirates Gets Approval to Fly Certain Passenger Flights

Emirates has received approval to carry passengers outbound from the UAE to some destinations in Europe, starting Monday, April 6.

Initial flights will commence from Dubai to London Heathrow, Frankfurt, Paris, Brussels and Zurich, with four flights a week to London Heathrow, and three flights a week to the other cities.

Operating from Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 2 until further notice, these flights can only carry outbound passengers from the UAE.

“While we hope to resume full operations as soon as possible, we acknowledge the challenges faced by many cities in dealing with the COVID-19 outbreak. Our network can only be restored with the easing of travel restrictions,” said Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and chief executive of Emirates Group.

“These initial passenger services, although limited to travellers who meet the entry requirements set by the destination countries, will be welcomed by our customers seeking to return home to their countries and families,” he added.

Emirates will also carry belly-hold cargo in both directions, supporting trade and communities with the transport of essential goods.

Emirates will operate its Boeing 777-300ER aircraft on these routes, offering seats in Business and Economy class. Flights can be booked by eligible passengers on www.emirates.com. Travel restrictions are in place at these destinations, and travellers are urged to check entry criteria before they fly.

For health and safety reasons, Emirates will operate a modified inflight service programme on these flights. Magazines and other print reading material will not be available, while food and beverages will continue to be offered on board. Packaging and presentation will be modified to reduce contact during meal service.

Emirates’ Lounge and Chauffeur Drive services will be temporarily unavailable during this period.

Furthermore, all Emirates aircraft will go through enhanced cleaning and disinfection processes in Dubai, after each journey.

In March, the airline had emporarily suspended most of its passenger operations due to the coronavirus crisis.