UAE airlines monitor Russian airspace after Ukraine's drone warning

Dubai: UAE airlines and passengers are closely monitoring developments in Russian airspace following a warning from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The Ukrainian leader cautioned airlines and insurers that Russian skies are becoming increasingly unsafe as Ukraine increases drone operations against Russia. While the warning does not currently lead to new restrictions on UAE airlines, the region is a significant hub for Russia-UAE air travel.

Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah all have multiple daily services to airports in Russia, operated by Emirates, flydubai, Etihad Airways, and Air Arabia, respectively. Zelenskyy stated that the growing number of Ukrainian drones in Russian territory necessitates airlines' attention to aviation safety. He emphasized that Ukraine does not intend to threaten civilian aviation but warned against potential loss of innocent lives.

UAE airlines, such as flydubai, are keeping a close watch on the situation and adjusting flight schedules and routes as required. flydubai stated that some delays and diversions may occur due to the evolving situation in the region, with passenger and crew safety remaining their top priority. The UAE has substantial air links with Russia, with Aeroflot, the national carrier, operating regular services between the two countries.

Aeroflot has resumed daily flights from June 1, with plans to increase frequency to twice daily from July 1. However, some Aeroflot services from Dubai International Airport have already experienced delays, though it is unclear if these are due to the Ukrainian warning or increased drone activity.