Budget carrier FlyDubai announced the suspension of all passenger flights until 4 June 2020. The decision comes as a precautionary measure to contain the spread of Covid-19. Earlier, Fly Dubai had obtained permission to operate 90 special repatriation flights. However, these flights are subject to approvals from the respective governments and passengers must check with their respective embassies.
The airline has currently repatriated over 12,532 passengers to 19 countries including Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Croatia, Egypt, Georgia, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Myanmar, Pakistan, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Somaliland, Sudan, Thailand and the UK.
In addition, the carrier also serviced 276 cargo-only flights to 26 destinations. The cargo carried more than 1.65 million kilos of perishables, medical supplies, express courier and essential goods since March 24.
Hamad Obaidalla, chief commercial officer at flydubai said: “Air cargo operations will continue to be our focus over the next few weeks. We have been working closely with our strategic partners enabling flydubai to transport cargo seamlessly to where it is needed the most, while adhering to the safety standards set by the industry and the World Health Organisation. Flydubai Cargo is maximising its capacity by transporting goods in the cargo hold on repatriation flights as well”.
What Else?
Flydubai has started selling tickets for regular passenger flights to Pakistan and India, with effect from 21 May. Tickets are also available for a few other international destinations. A flydubai agent confirmed to Gulf News that departure was completely subject to approval by relevant authorities from the respective countries.
With the situation changing by the minute, the airline has also issued alternate options in case the flights do not take off as mentioned. Passengers can either rebook or take vouchers as refund. No cash refunds will be given.
Fly Dubai joins Air Arabia in being the only two UAE carriers who are currently selling tickets to a number of destinations. However, this is completely subject to if the respective countries allow people to enter.