If you were planning a quick Mediterranean escape this week, you might need to tweak your itinerary. Emirates, the world’s busiest international airline, has announced a sudden disruption on its Dubai–Larnaca route for Thursday, September 11. But why? Due to the industrial action by Cypriot Trade Unions.
Emirates Larnaca Flights Cancelled, Malta Route Adjusted
Now, Larnaca isn’t just another airport on the map. With its golden beaches, buzzing tavernas, and ancient ruins, it’s been a go-to weekend getaway for UAE residents for years. Which is why the news of flight cancellations has left quite a few holidaymakers scrambling for alternatives.
What’s Happening with Flight EK109?
The main casualty here is flight EK109. Normally, this service links Dubai with Larnaca before continuing on to Malta. On September 11, though, EK109 won’t be heading into Cyprus at all. Instead, Emirates has turned it into EK8109, a direct Dubai–Malta service.
To put it simply: no Cyprus stop this time. EK8109 will depart from DXB at 10.10 am GST and land in Malta at 2 pm local time.
Truth be told, this sudden switch has a domino effect. If you booked a Dubai–Larnaca ticket, you’re automatically caught in the middle of this rerouting.
The Knock-On for Malta Travellers
Here’s where it gets a bit tangled. Because EK109 usually stops in Larnaca before Malta, travellers bound for the island nation are technically benefiting as they are getting a faster, non-stop flight. But for those bound for Cyprus? It’s not quite as smooth.
Emirates has already confirmed that passengers holding tickets to Larnaca will be rerouted via Malta on EK8109 and then onwards to Cyprus on EK110. Not exactly the breezy direct trip people signed up for, but at least there’s a workaround.
What About The Return Flights?
Interestingly, flight EK110, which usually runs from Malta through Larnaca before heading back to Dubai, will operate as normal. So, if you’re already in Cyprus or Malta and planning to return to the UAE, your flight remains untouched.
To be fair, that consistency should ease some nerves. Nobody likes getting stranded abroad because of shifting flight schedules.
Also Read: Here’s What’s New In Emirates Skywards Rewards Policy
What Travellers Need To Do Now
If you’re booked on the cancelled Dubai–Larnaca flight, Emirates says you’ll be automatically rebooked. The airline started contacting customers as early as Tuesday, September 9, at 3.49 pm, shortly after posting its update online.
Still, it’s not a bad idea to double-check your details. Head to the Manage Your Booking section on Emirates’ website and make sure your contact info is current. After all, last-minute flight changes only work smoothly if you actually receive the alerts.
Emirates’ Apology
As expected, the airline has apologised for the inconvenience. To be fair, these kinds of disruptions are a reminder that even the most reliable carriers are at the mercy of events beyond their control.
Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/danilovi from Getty Images Signature, Emirates/Instagram