KOCHI: Following adverse weather conditions, some of the airports in the UAE region including the Dubai International Airport came to a standstill. As a result, a total of six flights to the UAE -- four flights from Kochi to Dubai and one flight each from Kochi to Sharjah and Doha were cancelled on Wednesday.
Air India Express' IX 437, IX 435, Flydubai's FZ 454, Emirates' EK 533, and Indigo's 6E 1475 from Dubai, Air Arabia's G9423 to Sharjah and Indigo's 6E1343 to Doha were cancelled on Wednesday.
On Tuesday night, flights of Air India departing to Dubai from Kochi were cancelled due to the prevailing weather conditions. According to reports, a decision regarding rescheduling operations is expected later on Wednesday, depending on the weather situation. Airlines are considering a reassessment based on the intensity of the rainfall.
Heavy rainfall has caused waterlogging on the runway, and flights are diverted to the nearest available airport until the situation improves. At the same time, flights departing from Dubai will continue as usual. Reports quoting Dubai Airport Authorities said that on Tuesday, 45 flights were cancelled.
In addition, Oman and the UAE continue to experience heavy rainfall. The UAE has issued a red alert and residents are advised to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. Private companies have asked to arrange work-from-home provisions and schools have been instructed to close temporarily.
Heavy rainfall is anticipated in Oman in the following days, causing flooding and disruptions to traffic. So far 18 deaths have been reported in Oman. Water logging on roads has led to traffic standstills in many areas.
