Travelers flying from the UAE to South Asia faced significant disruptions this week as powerful Cyclone Remal lashed Bangladesh and impacted neighboring India. The storm’s heavy rains and strong winds forced airlines to cancel or divert flights, leaving passengers scrambling to adjust their travel plans.
Flydubai Feels Remal’s Wrath:
A flydubai flight bound for Chittagong, Bangladesh (CGP) became a prime example of the disruptions. Scheduled to land on May 27th, the flight was forced to divert to the Bangladeshi capital Dhaka (DAC) due to the severe weather conditions at Chittagong. This unexpected detour likely caused frustration and delays for passengers eager to reach their final destination.
Impact Beyond Bangladesh:
While Bangladesh bore the brunt of Cyclone Remal’s fury, the storm’s impact extended beyond its borders. Travelers flying between the UAE and India also faced the consequences. Heavy rainfall caused a complete shutdown of Kolkata Airport (CCU) for a significant period. Operations were suspended for a whopping 21 hours starting from midnight on May 26th, leaving many flights grounded and passengers stranded.
Delays and Cancellations Across Airlines:
Flydubai wasn’t the only airline affected by the cyclone. Earlier on Sunday, even their flights connecting Dubai and Kolkata (FZ 461/462) faced delays due to the adverse weather conditions.
Major Carriers Not Immune:
While major UAE carriers Emirates and Etihad Airways initially reported their flights operating as scheduled, a closer look reveals some cancellations. Etihad Airways, based in Abu Dhabi, was forced to cancel flights EY256 and EY257 between Abu Dhabi and Kolkata on Sunday due to the cyclone’s impact. Similarly, Emirates, Dubai’s flagship carrier, had to cancel flights EK 572/573 on May 26th and EK570/571 on May 27th for the same reason.
Staying Informed Crucial for Travelers:
These flight cancellations and diversions serve as a stark reminder of the potential disruptions severe weather events can cause for travelers. Staying informed about weather forecasts and checking flight updates with your chosen airline is crucial during such situations. Passengers can utilize airline websites and mobile apps to receive the latest information on flight delays, cancellations, and potential changes to their itineraries.
Looking Ahead:
While the immediate threat of Cyclone Remal appears to be subsiding, travelers are advised to remain cautious and continue monitoring weather conditions and flight updates for any further disruptions. By staying informed and planning ahead, travelers can navigate these unforeseen situations with greater ease and minimize the impact on their journeys.
