Emirates Begins Gradual Resumption of Flights as Airspace Partially Reopens With Maldives Included in Operating Network

Emirates has introduced a reduced flight schedule following the partial reopening of regional airspace, restoring more than 100 flights across March 5th and 6th while continuing to prioritize safety and operational stability.

Maldives is included in the airline’s updated list of destinations now receiving limited service, appearing in the fifth and sixth groupings of the operating network.  MaltaToday

The airline confirms that it will operate a restricted schedule until further notice, rebuilding its network gradually as airspace access improves. The partial reopening allows Emirates to resume passenger and cargo flights, including essential shipments such as perishables and pharmaceuticals.

UAE airports had earlier halted most regular flights due to regional airspace closures, with only limited and special services operating to bring residents and citizens home. Other UAE carriers, including Etihad, flydubai, and Air Arabia, have also suspended or reduced scheduled services in response to the same restrictions.

Emirates is urging passengers to avoid travelling to the airport unless they hold a confirmed booking on an operating flight. The airline is giving priority to customers whose earlier flights were disrupted and is accepting new bookings only on routes currently active.

Passengers are advised to:

• Check flight status before leaving home.

• Review operational updates on the Emirates website.

• Monitor email for notifications about changes or cancellations.

• Ensure contact details are updated in Manage Your Booking.

Transit passengers will only be accepted if their connecting flights are confirmed and operating.

Although the Maldives is geographically distant from the Middle East conflict, travellers have been warned that flights to and from the Maldives may still face delays or rerouting due to Gulf airspace restrictions affecting common flight paths.

Despite these challenges, Emirates has reinstated limited service to Male’ as part of its reduced network, allowing passengers to resume travel while the airline continues to stabilise its operations.

Emirates states that it will continue monitoring the situation and expand its schedule as soon as conditions allow. With safety and security remaining the highest priority, the airline expects a gradual return to normal operations once regional airspace becomes fully accessible.