On Friday, July 19, a sudden worldwide IT outage disrupted various sectors, including travel, banking, and healthcare services. The incident has led to significant travel chaos internationally, grounding many flights and causing cancellations and delays, with long queues forming at airports.
Impact on UAE Airlines:
Despite the global IT disruption, UAE-based airlines Etihad Airways and Emirates have continued their operations with minimal impact. However, both airlines have cautioned passengers to expect minor delays.
Emirates Statement: “We are aware of the global IT disruption and are monitoring the situation closely,” an Emirates spokesperson told Gulf News.
Etihad Airways Statement: Etihad Airways also confirmed to Gulf News that it has operated normally since the disruption began. Nonetheless, passengers might experience delays due to delayed take-offs at other airports.
Travelers scheduled to fly on July 19 or those with connecting flights are advised to frequently check their airline’s website, app, or social media channels for updates on their travel schedules.
Etihad Airways’ Expanded Services:
In related news, Etihad Airways recently announced an increase in its flight frequency from Boston to Abu Dhabi. Starting from March 2024, the route will operate daily, up from four times a week. This change is expected to benefit corporate and leisure travelers, offering easier access to the Middle East and seamless connections across Etihad’s network, including 11 nonstop routes into India.
Partnership with JetBlue: Thanks to Etihad’s partnership with JetBlue, travelers can now enjoy more convenient travel options within North America.
US Customs and Border Protection Facility: A notable feature at Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport is the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) facility, which allows passengers to clear US immigration and customs before boarding their flight. This facility, the only one in the Middle East, simplifies the arrival process in the US.
Emirates’ Customer Experience at Dubai International Airport:
To enhance the travel experience, Emirates offers free ice cream to passengers at Dubai International Airport (DXB) every weekend until Sunday, July 28. Travelers passing through Terminal 3 can enjoy a complimentary ice cream cone or lolly from the big red striped carts between midday and 6 pm every Friday to Sunday.
