Limited operations resume after fuel tank fire at Dubai international airport
Dubai International Airport faced major disruption on Monday, March 16, after a drone struck a fuel tank near the airport, causing a significant fire and forcing Emirates to cancel several flights. Following the strike, the airport was temporarily closed as emergency services rushed to contain the blaze, leaving passengers facing uncertainty at one of the world’s busiest travel hubs.
“Unfortunately, some flights from today’s schedule have been cancelled. Affected customers will receive a cancellation notice and will be advised on reaccommodation options,” Emirates said in a statement. The airline has confirmed that it expects to operate only a limited schedule after 10am local time, urging passengers to check that their flights are operating before heading to the airport. Travellers can amend bookings and rebook flights online within 72 hours of the original departure date.
Authorities continue to manage the situation, ensuring safety around the airport after the drone strike caused a fire in the immediate vicinity. Emirates Airline has restarted limited operations, though several flights originally set for Monday have already been removed from the timetable.
The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority confirmed that flights are currently operating to select destinations, according to the Dubai Media Office.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, now in its third week of conflict following joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28. Iran has retaliated, disrupting regional air travel and the movement of oil.
Emirates promised that it will continue to publish updates as the situation unfolds, helping passengers stay informed.