Dubai: Flight operations between Kochi and Dubai have been significantly disrupted due to adverse weather conditions across the UAE. Several flights, including those operated by Flydubai, Emirates and IndiGo, have been cancelled due to waterlogging on the runways.
Among the affected flights are Flydubai's FZ454, Emirates' EK533 and IndiGo's 6E 1475. Additionally, an Air India flight scheduled to depart to Dubai from Kochi was also cancelled on Tuesday night due to the prevailing bad weather conditions in the Gulf city. Passengers were released from the Air India Express flight after the cancellation. However, complaints arose that the flight authorities had not informed the passengers that the flight was cancelled. It has been informed that the flight will depart late.
Officials have indicated that a decision regarding the rescheduling of operations is expected later on Wednesday. This decision will be contingent upon the prevailing weather situation, with airlines closely monitoring the intensity of the rainfall.
Some of the flights departing from Kochi were also diverted to the nearest available airports in the UAE until the situation improves.
Reports quoting Dubai Airport Authorities revealed that on Tuesday alone, 45 flights were cancelled due to the heavy rainfall. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and ensuring necessary measures are in place to address the challenges posed by the inclement weather.
The heavy rain that started in the UAE on Monday evening continued till Wednesday morning. The rain was accompanied by thunder and hail in many parts of the country. Waterlogging is severe in most emirates including Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman and Ras Al Khaimah.