Emirates Halts Transit Flights to Israel Via Dubai Amid Security Concerns

Emirates, the largest airline in the United Arab Emirates, has suspended its code-sharing flights with flydubai to and from Tel Aviv. This means passengers whose final destination is Tel Aviv will not be allowed to board flights in their departure city if they are transiting through Dubai. The decision, which took effect immediately and is in place until further notice, has stranded Israelis in Dubai following an incident involving a Boeing 737 that is being discussed globally. Emirates has stated it will provide accommodation and assistance to passengers already en route to Israel to help them complete their journeys. The airline advises customers with existing bookings to contact their travel agent or the Emirates contact center for information.

Earlier, flydubai had suspended its Dubai-Israel flights for six days. This action followed a demand from the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) to cease the company's operations on the Israeli route until the reasons behind an attempted mid-air hijacking were clarified. The incident is being considered a potential jihadist terrorist attack by some in Israel.

In response to the stranded passengers, Israeli airlines El Al, Arkia, and Israir are preparing to launch partially subsidized, one-way "evacuation" flights from Dubai to Israel starting Friday, pending security approvals. Arkia has announced a schedule for special flights from Dubai until October 6, with the first departing Friday at 19:10 local time, starting at $279. El Al plans similar flights for $249 in its Lite fare, and Israir is preparing two flights at $299. Prices are based on Hebrew media reports. Additionally, Israel has requested Etihad Airways increase its flights between Abu Dhabi and Israel.