Kenya Airways (KQ) has announced the temporary suspension of flights to Dubai due to severe weather conditions and ongoing flooding in the United Arab Emirates.
In an official statement to its customers, the national carrier disclosed that one flight into and out of Dubai was cancelled on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, and another cancellation occurred today, Wednesday, April 17, 2024.
“Due to severe weather and ongoing flooding in the United Arab Emirates, which has led to operational challenges, Kenya Airways cancelled one flight into and out of Dubai yesterday, Tuesday, April 16th, 2024, and one today, Wednesday, April 17th, 2024. We sincerely apologise to our customers for any inconvenience resulting from this situation,” KQ said.
Adding;
“We sincerely apologise to our customers for any inconvenience resulting from this situation.”
KQ assured its passengers that it is closely monitoring the situation and is in constant communication with Dubai authorities to minimize disruptions to travel plans.
Affected customers were advised to contact Kenya Airways via phone at +254 711 024 747, through WhatsApp at +254 705 474 747, or by email at [email protected] for further assistance.
“We are monitoring the situation and are in close contact with Dubai authorities to minimise the inconvenience and disruption to our customers’ travels. Affected customers are advised to get in touch at +254 711 024 747, WhatsApp: +254 705 474 747, or email: [email protected]. As this is a developing situation, we will keep you updated as soon as we have new developments,” KQ announced.
— Kenya Airways (@KenyaAirways) April 17, 2024
Flood situation in Dubai
The UAE was hit with severe thunderstorms and heavy rains in the desert metropolis of Dubai.
The downpour, which began late Monday, drenched the city with around 20mm (0.79 inches) of rain, according to data from Dubai International Airport.
By Tuesday morning, the storms had intensified, persisting throughout the day and adding to the inundation with heavy rain and hail. By the day’s end, over 142mm (5.59 inches) had inundated Dubai, far surpassing its average annual rainfall of 94.7mm (3.73 inches).
The effects of the torrential rain were evident at Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest for international travel and a crucial hub for Emirates Airlines.
Floodwater pooled on taxiways, leading to the suspension of arrivals on Tuesday night. Passengers faced difficulties accessing terminals due to the surrounding roads being submerged.
On Wednesday morning, Dubai International Airport acknowledged the challenges posed by the flooding, stating that it had limited transportation options and disrupted flights as crews struggled to access the airfield.
