The first rescue flight from Dubai has departed for Israel, according to journalist Dean Fisher (N12).
At 21:48 Jerusalem, journalist Dean Fisher (N12) reported that the first rescue flight from Dubai departed for Israel, carrying stranded Israelis back home after hours of delays over UAE luggage-handling requirements.
Throughout Friday afternoon and evening, The Zioneer tracked the unfolding rescue operation: At 14:56, ynet reported that the UAE requested cargo planes to transport luggage of Israelis stranded in Abu Dhabi. By 15:32, Arkia flight 603 departed for Dubai, becoming the first rescue flight to depart from Israel, though passenger boarding was initially delayed due to the luggage condition (15:38). At 17:07, the first Israeli passengers arrived at Dubai International Airport and were informed they would have to leave their suitcases behind. An Arkia rescue flight landed in Dubai at 18:54 (published at 18:56). Returning passengers later reported extensive security screening, including additional scanning of carry-on bags (published at 19:52).
As The Zioneer reported earlier on Friday (09:51), Israeli airline Israir had received the required approvals from Dubai airport to operate rescue flights and was preparing an additional flight after the holiday.
The cause of the stranding remains unconfirmed. The number of passengers aboard this flight was not specified, nor whether additional rescue flights are scheduled. The luggage of the returning passengers remains in Dubai, awaiting a cargo plane.
6 developments
- DevelopingArkia chartered flight to Vilnius returns to Israel over suspected bird strike, lands safely
- DevelopingAerial refueling aircraft performs emergency landing at Ben Gurion Airport
- DevelopingBen Gurion Airport halts departures for routine maintenance; flights delayed without prior notice, Arkia to compensate
- DevelopingAdditional US refueling tankers land at Ben Gurion Airport from the Gulf
Source and signal
- Open-source intake