Dubai, UAE – Emirates, Etihad Airways, and flydubai have confirmed that their flight operations, including routes to Addis Ababa, continue unaffected following the recent volcanic ash eruption in Ethiopia. The airlines say they are closely monitoring the situation but emphasize that current operations remain normal.
Airlines on High Alert, Urge Passengers to Stay Updated.
In statements issued to media, all three carriers emphasized they are maintaining close surveillance of the ash cloud’s movement. They have advised their passengers to keep their contact details up to date in order to receive any timely flight notifications or schedule changes.
Etihad, for example, reiterated that safety remains its top priority, stating that its teams are coordinating with aviation authorities to assess evolving meteorological conditions.
UAE Operations Remain Uninterrupted
According to Dubai Airports, flights to and from the UAE have continued as scheduled. Specifically, flights between Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Addis Ababa were reported to be departing and arriving “on time.”
This stability comes even as ash from Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano drifts across high-altitude corridors, affecting certain international flight paths.
Ash Cloud Stabilising Below Cruising Altitudes
A key reason behind the lack of disruption for UAE carriers is that the volcanic ash cloud has stabilized below normal aircraft cruising levels, according to tracking and aviation sources.
This lower-altitude drift reduces direct risk to flight paths typically used by long-haul carriers. Nonetheless, aviation authorities remain vigilant. For instance, India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued advisories to airlines, advising them to avoid ash-impacted regions and adjust flight planning accordingly.
Wider Impact Beyond UAE
While UAE airlines are running smoothly, disruptions have been reported elsewhere. Indian carriers, such as Akasa Air, have canceled flights to and from Abu Dhabi, Jeddah, and Kuwait for safety reasons, citing the drifting ash plume.
Additionally, aviation regulators in India have recommended inspections of runways and aircraft in case of ash contamination, stressing on the importance of monitoring engine performance and potential cabin smoke.
