Travel News Update
Qatar Airways officially resumed its flights after Qatar’s airspace reopened following the temporary closure due to the increased tensions in the region. The airspace was temporarily closed after Iran had launched missiles in the direction of the U.S. Al Udeid airbase in Qatar and the government closed the airspace as a precautionary measure. The move left the flights canceled, diverting in mid-air, and many passengers at Hamad International Airport in Doha stranded.
Now that flights return to normal, here is everything you need to know about the scandal, how it has affected current travel arrangements, and what Qatar Airways is doing to accommodate passengers during the time.
Why the Airspace Was Closed
Late on Monday evening, the government of Qatar shut down the nation’s airspace in response to missile activity around the Al Udeid military airbase, where American forces are stationed. The shutdown was for a temporary period for the security of citizens’, residents’, and visitors’. Qatar’s Foreign Ministry explained the shutdown as temporary and unavoidable because tensions in the region have emerged after recent US military operations within Iran.
Despite the shutdown being less than 24 hours, the disruption to flight scheduling was gigantic.
Flight Delays and Diversion
91 in-flight flights to Doha were diverted to neighboring international airports such as:
- Abu Dhabi (UAE)
- Muscat (Oman)
- Bahrain
- Dammam (Saudi Arabia)
The majority of the passengers’ travel plans were destroyed at short notice. Qatar Airways flyers were diverted in mid-air, while others were stranded at departure or arrival points with minimal information.
Qatar Airways Response
Qatar Airways responded rapidly to the crisis by:
- Deploying additional ground staff to Hamad International Airport and other bases impacted
- Providing relief services such as accommodation, catering services, and rebooking services to impacted passengers
- Working closely with government authorities and international aviation authorities to resume operations safely
The airline reaffirmed its top priority of keeping its passengers safe and is operating in close coordination towards the aim to restart services at the earliest possible and as soon as possible.
Current Development: Resumption of Flights
Qatar airspace opened on Tuesday morning, and flights resumed with Qatar Airways. Passengers are nevertheless asked to expect ongoing delays and possible schedule changes throughout the process of recovery.
The airline continues to divert flights and remove backlog through diversions and cancellations. Flexibility and patience will be the way of the future for passengers who have flight bookings on Qatar Airways in the coming days.
What Passengers Can Do Now
If you’ve booked a flight on Qatar Airways or are stopping over in Doha in the coming near future, here’s what you should do to get through your journey during this time of upheaval:
- Check Flight Status
Checking your flight status on QatarAirways.com or the Qatar Airways app just before you head out to the airport is always a good idea. Flight schedules can still be altered at short notice. - Arrive Early
As rebooking and traffic at the airport are possible, leave a bit earlier than usual to allow time for security checks and check-in. - Be Informed
Follow Qatar Airways on social media or sign up for email and SMS updates for the latest updates about your flight. - Keep an Alternative Travel Plan on Hand
In the event of cancellation or postponement of your flight, consider alternative means of travel in case time-sensitive plans are affected. Ground transportation and regional airlines may offer temporary options. - Use Airport Assistance
Extra staff have been deployed to assist passengers. Don’t hesitate to ask for help or guidance at service counters, especially if you’re traveling with family, elderly passengers, or children.
Final Thoughts
While the closure of airspace was abrupt and perplexing, it was a precautionary action in response to increased tensions across the Middle East. The opening up of the skies in Qatar is to be applauded as a positive move, and Qatar Airways is going out of its way to restore travel for citizens.
Even though changes and delays remain possible in a couple of days, the rapid reaction by the airline and emphasis on customer care have averted the blow. If you have any upcoming flights, be vigilant, keep yourself posted, and do continue to check your flight status every now and then.
