Airlines operating flights between Africa and key Middle East hubs have announced adjustments to their schedules as regional security developments continue to affect airspace operations.
This is a rapidly evolving situation linked to ongoing military activity in the Middle East, and airlines say schedules remain under review as authorities assess operational corridors and aviation safety. The situation has led several carriers to introduce limited services or revised schedules while prioritising passenger safety and repatriation efforts.
While some airlines have temporarily scaled down their operations, others are introducing limited flights to assist stranded passengers and maintain essential connectivity.
Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways has confirmed plans to operate a limited number of repatriation flights following temporary authorisation from the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority, confirming the availability of restricted operating corridors.
The airline intends to operate two repatriation flights between Doha and Johannesburg on March 14 to assist passengers affected by the disruption.
The flight schedule is as follows:
• Flight QR1377 will depart Doha at 10h40 and arrive in Johannesburg at 18h25.
• The return flight QR1378 will depart Johannesburg at 23h20 and arrive in Doha at 08h40 the following day.
The airline emphasised that these flights do not represent the resumption of regular scheduled commercial services, but are intended specifically to assist passengers who require repatriation.
Passengers have been advised not to arrive at the airport unless they hold a confirmed and valid ticket for travel.
Emirates
Emirates has meanwhile announced an expanded flight schedule for its operations to and from South Africa, covering Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban.
Johannesburg
Between March 21 and March 28, the airline will operate daily Johannesburg flights.
• EK763 will depart Dubai at 10h10 and arrive in Johannesburg at 16h35.
• EK764 will depart Johannesburg at 18h50 and arrive in Dubai at 05h05 the following day.
Cape Town
Emirates will operate three weekly Cape Town flights between March 17 and March 29.
• On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, EK772 will depart Dubai at 03h50 and arrive in Cape Town at 11h40.
• On Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, EK773 will depart Cape Town at 13h40 and arrive in Dubai at 01h05 the following day.
Durban
From March 18 to March 28, Emirates will operate three weekly Durban flights.
• On Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, EK775 will depart Dubai at 10h40 and arrive in Durban at 17h10.
• On Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays, EK776 will depart Durban at 19h10 and arrive in Dubai at 05h25.
The airline says all schedules remain subject to continuous review and may change depending on operational requirements and developments in the region. Any updates will be communicated to passengers accordingly.
Passengers transiting through Dubai will only be accepted for travel if their connecting flights are operating. Travellers eligible for the airline’s Dubai Connect programme must arrange accommodation in advance.
Emirates has also restored online check-in services, allowing passengers to check in 48 hours before departure, following what the airline described as the stabilisation of limited network operations.
Kenya Airways
Kenya Airways said it is closely monitoring developments in the Middle East and their potential impact on regional airspace and international flight operations.
The airline operates regular services connecting Nairobi with major global hubs, including routes that provide onward connections to the Middle East and Asia. While the carrier has not announced specific schedule changes linked to the current situation, it noted that operations remain under review in line with aviation safety advisories and airspace directives issued by relevant authorities.
Passengers travelling on affected routes are advised to check the status of their flights before departure and ensure they hold confirmed bookings before arriving at the airport.
The airline added that any changes to its schedule will be communicated directly to customers through official channels and travel agents.
Source: travelnews.co.za
