Karachi: Emirates Airlines resumed flight operations to Jinnah International Airport in Karachi on Friday, five days after suspending services due to the Gulf conflict and regional airspace closures.
According to 24NewsHD TV channel, the first Emirates flight to Karachi after the suspension carried around 300 passengers who had been stranded at Dubai International Airport since February 28, 2026. The passengers arrived in Karachi aboard flight EK-602, marking the airline’s gradual restoration of services following the crisis.
The suspension had left hundreds of Pakistani travelers stuck in Dubai as tensions in the region forced several countries to close parts of their airspace. Consequently, airlines across the Middle East cancelled or delayed flights, disrupting travel plans and cargo movement.
Passengers reach Karachi after days of uncertainty
Meanwhile, Emirates launched relief flights to assist passengers stranded in Dubai. These flights aim to clear the backlog created by the temporary suspension and help travelers return to their destinations.
Officials said the arrival of flight EK-602 brought relief to hundreds of passengers who had been waiting at the airport for several days. Moreover, authorities coordinated with airport officials in Karachi to ensure smooth immigration and baggage processing upon arrival.
Airline gradually restores operations
Earlier, Emirates had resumed a limited flight schedule after authorities partially reopened regional airspace. However, the airline continues to operate cautiously while monitoring the evolving situation.
According to Emirates, more than 100 flights will depart from and return to Dubai International Airport until March 6, representing the carrier’s first steps toward restoring normal operations.
These flights will transport passengers to their final destinations while also carrying essential cargo, including perishables and pharmaceutical supplies.
“Safety is always our top priority,” Emirates said, adding that the airline will gradually rebuild its schedule depending on airspace availability and operational requirements.
