RSAProvides Alternative Pathway for Stranded Russian Travelers
Tensions in the Middle East and Flight Disruptions to Russia
In the midst of escalating tensions in the Middle East, passengers considering travel from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Russia should take note. Artem Koreniago, a representative from Rosaviation, suggested in a Telegram channel to consider alternative flight options, specifically including layovers in Istanbul on flights operated by Emirates and Turkish Airlines.
Despite these recommendations, a total of 53 flights between the UAE and Russia will still operate on June 17, as reported by Rosaviation. These flights will be managed by seven airlines, including Pobeda, Aeroflot, Emirates, Flydubai, Siberia, Air Arabia, and Etihad Airways. However, due to the closure of Iranian airspace, airlines may be resorting to longer routes with potential refueling stops, as emphasized by Rosaviation.
Rosaviation's suggestions come after ATOUR publicly announced the evacuation of stranded Russian citizens in the UAE by Air Arabia flights. Previously, approximately 2,000 Russian citizens encountered difficulties departing from the UAE due to flight cancellations, with around 10,000 Russians overall affected by aviation disruptions.
It's worth noting that Aeroflot intends to resolve the issue of reduced passenger capacity by changing the model of its Boeing aircraft for flights to the UAE, aiming to increase the number of available seats by 90 per flight.
As the conflict between Israel, Iran, and other countries continues, several nations have closed their airspace, such as Jordan, Iran, and Iraq. In response, Rosaviation has prohibited Russian airlines from operating flights to Israel and Iran as well as from these two countries.
In light of these difficulties, passengers should remain vigilant, seek flexible booking options, and stay updated with the latest airline announcements and diplomatic advisories to secure the most advantageous routes. Despite the challenges, it's essential to note that support services are available for affected passengers from the UAE authorities and Russian diplomatic missions.
Additional Considerations
- Air Arabia: Due to cancellations, passengers affected by Air Arabia's decision can consider rerouting via airlines that still offer flights between Europe or other parts of Asia and Russia.
- Other UAE Carriers: While specific flight cancellations or suspensions have not been announced for Emirates and Etihad regarding UAE-Russia routes, Flydubai's suspension list does not include Russia.
- Alternative Options: As direct flights from the UAE to Russia may be limited, consider rerouting through other destinations or connecting flights via airlines such as Aeroflot, Pobeda Airlines, Turkish Airlines, or Lufthansa, although availability and prices may vary.
- Assistance: Support services are available for affected passengers in the UAE, including rebooking assistance, accommodations, and travel updates.
- Despite the ongoing political tension in the Middle East leading to travel disruptions to Russia, there are alternative lifestyle options for passengers, such as considering rerouting via airlines like Aeroflot, Pobeda Airlines, Turkish Airlines, or Lufthana for potential connections.
- In the general news, the evacuation of stranded Russians in the UAE by Air Arabia and other UAE carriers' flights has been highlighted due to flight cancellations, making it crucial for travelers to stay updated on the latest politics and aviation announcements.
