airBaltic Continues Dubai Flight Suspensions, Conducts Repatriation Flights Amidst Middle East Instability
Riga, Latvia – Latvian airline airBaltic has extended the suspension of flights to and from Dubai, United Arab Emirates, due to ongoing security concerns and airspace closures in the Middle East. The airline is actively assisting Latvian citizens in the UAE seeking to return home through repatriation flights.
Flight Suspensions and Repatriation Efforts
airBaltic initially suspended flights to Dubai due to the escalating security situation in the Middle East. This suspension was originally in effect until March 5th, 2026, and has been extended. All flights to and from Dubai are now cancelled until March 2nd, 2026 (inclusive), including flight BT792 scheduled for March 3rd, 2026 [airBaltic Newsroom].
In response to the situation, airBaltic has organized multiple repatriation flights to bring Latvian nationals back to Riga. A second repatriation flight, BT7701, departed from Dubai International Airport on March 6th, 2026, at 5:50 PM local time [Archyde]. This flight included a technical stop in Heraklion, Greece, before arriving in Riga at approximately 2:10 AM local time on March 7th, 2026 [Archyde].
Flight Details and Passenger Information
The repatriation flight BT7701 accommodated 145 passengers [BB.lv]. Latvian citizens registered in the Consular Registry were contacted by the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs with information regarding participation and procedures. Passengers utilizing the repatriation flight were required to pay a co-payment of 350 euros [Archyde].
airBaltic explicitly advised individuals not to travel to the airport unless they had received confirmation of their inclusion on the passenger list to avoid congestion and ensure a smooth boarding process [Archyde].
Ongoing Commitment to Citizen Safety
airBaltic stated its readiness to adjust flight schedules and operate additional flights if necessary to assist its citizens abroad [BB.lv]. The airline previously announced the cancellation of flights to Dubai and Tel Aviv due to security concerns and airspace restrictions.
The situation remains fluid, and airBaltic continues to monitor developments in the Middle East closely. Passengers are advised to check the airline’s website for the latest updates and travel advisories.
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