Air India, Air India Express cancel all March 16 flights to and from Dubai after fire near airport

Air India and Air India Express on Monday cancelled their flights to and from Dubai after operations at Dubai International Airport were temporarily suspended following a drone-related incident that caused a fuel tank fire in the vicinity of the airport.

“Dubai International Airport has temporarily suspended all flight operations to and from the airport. As a result, Air India and Air India Express flights to and from Dubai have been cancelled for the day,” the airline said in a post on X.

The airline said affected passengers would be offered the option to rebook for a future travel date or cancel their booking for a full refund at no additional cost.

Air India Express said its ad-hoc flight operations to and from Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah would continue as scheduled.

Dubai’s Civil Aviation Authority announced the suspension of flight operations as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of passengers and airport staff, according to a statement issued by the Dubai Media Office.

“Dubai Civil Aviation Authority announces the temporary suspension of flights at Dubai International Airport as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of all passengers and staff,” the Dubai Media Office said.

The incident involved a drone near the airport that sparked fire near one of the fuel tanks.

“A drone incident in the vicinity of Dubai International Airport (DXB) affected one of the fuel tanks... No injuries have been reported so far,” the office said.

“Dubai Civil Defence teams confirm that the situation remains under control, with no spread of the fire. No injuries reported,” it added.

Some flights were diverted to Al Maktoum International Airport as a result of the disruption.

“Dubai Airports announces the diversion of some flights from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC),” the statement said.

Dubai-based carrier Emirates also confirmed the disruption, saying all flights to and from the airport had been temporarily suspended.

“All flights to and from Dubai have been temporarily suspended. Please do not go to the airport. Emirates will share updates when available,” the airline said on X.

Travellers have been advised to contact their respective airlines for the latest updates regarding their flights, authorities said.

Dubai International Airport is the world’s busiest airport for international passenger traffic and a major hub for long-haul carrier Emirates.