UAE suspends all inbound and outbound passenger flights for two weeks

The UAE has suspended all inbound and outbound passenger flights and the transit of airline passengers for two weeks as part of the precautionary measures taken to curb the spread of the Covid-19.

The decision was taken by the National Emergency and Crisis and Disasters Management and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), official news agency WAM reported.

The decision, which is subject to re-assessment, will take effect in 48 hours.

In a statement, the CAA said cargo and emergency evacuation flights would be exempt, taking into consideration all the precautionary measures adopted as per the recommendations of the Ministry of Health and Prevention.

“Additional examination and isolation arrangements will be taken later should flights resume in order to ensure the safety of passengers, air crews, and airport personnel and their protection from infection risks,” the statement said.

Also read: UAE urges all residents to stay home as it closes malls, makes restaurants delivery-only

On Sunday, Dubai airline Emirates announced that it was suspending most of its passenger flights.

The airline said the move came amidst growing air travel restrictions imposed by countries to stop the spread of the virus.

“Having received requests from governments and customers to support the repatriation of travellers, Emirates will continue to operate passenger and cargo flights to the following countries until further notice, as long as borders remain open, and there is demand: the UK, Switzerland, Hong Kong, Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Australia, South Africa, USA, and Canada. The situation remains dynamic, and travellers can check flight status on emirates.com,” a statement said.

Read: Update: Dubai’s Emirates says to stop ‘most’ passenger flights from March 25