Emirates suspends check-in at Dubai airport, affecting Birmingham passengers after torrential rain

Flights from Dubai were grounded due to torrential rain as passengers from Birmingham were caught up in the travel chaos. Emirates has suspended all check-ins at Dubai Airport for the remainder of today, Wednesday 17 April.

Two Emirates flights to Birmingham Airport were due to depart today but the entire schedule was grounded until midnight. Dubai Airport also asked travelers not to come to terminals unless “absolutely necessary”. More than 12 months’ worth of rain fell in one day, causing horrific flooding that swamped the airport and roads. The storm in the UAE is believed to be the heaviest rainfall for the country in 75 years.

Flights from BHX to Dubai left as early as yesterday, April 16, and are scheduled to depart later today. Travelers are advised to check with airlines about delays and disruptions.

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Dubai Airport posted on X: “We advise you NOT to come to the airport unless absolutely necessary. Flights continue to be delayed and diverted. Please check your flight status directly with the airline. We are working hard to restore operations as quickly as possible. in very difficult conditions.”

In a thread on X, the airline posted: “Emirates is suspending check-in for passengers departing @DXB from 8:00am on April 17th until midnight due to operational challenges caused by inclement weather and by road conditions. Affected customers can contact their booking. agent or visit https://emirat.es/support to rebook.

“Passengers arriving in Dubai who are already in transit will continue to be processed for their flights. Customers can expect delays to departures and arrivals and are advised to check the latest flight schedules at https://emirat.es/flightstatus

“We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused. Emirates is working hard to restore our scheduled operations and our teams will provide all possible support to affected customers. Please DM us if you need any assistance.

“Dubai customers with flights scheduled for today (April 17) are advised not to go to @DXB, as check-in remains suspended for all flights. Your safety is our top priority. For assistance with rebookings, send us a DM or visit https://emirat.es/support. For more updates, visit https://emirat.es/travelupdates.”

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