An Emirates flight from Thiruvananthapuram to Dubai had to return midway on Monday after Dubai International Airport temporarily closed due to a drone-related incident. Flight EK523, carrying over 350 passengers, was diverted back to its origin as a precautionary measure.
The drone reportedly struck near the airport perimeter, igniting a fire in a fuel tank area. Emergency teams quickly controlled the blaze, but authorities suspended all inbound and outbound flights to ensure safety. The pilots of EK523 decided to abort the Dubai landing and return to Thiruvananthapuram, where the aircraft safely touched down with no injuries reported.
The closure affected several other international flights, with some diverted to Al Maktoum International Airport or returned to their departure airports. Emirates and other airlines advised passengers to stay updated on revised flight schedules.
Dubai International Airport, one of the busiest in the world, has faced repeated disruptions in recent weeks due to drone and security threats. Aviation authorities confirmed that flights began resuming gradually once the area was secured.
This incident highlights ongoing regional security concerns in the Gulf, where drone strikes and aerial incidents have occasionally disrupted commercial aviation. Authorities emphasized passenger safety as the top priority and urged travelers to remain in contact with their airlines for further guidance.
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