Following the UAE's heaviest rainfall in 75 years, Dubai Airports is swiftly restoring and normalising operations at Dubai International Airport (DXB). CEO Paul Griffiths announced that as of yesterday, 22 April, DXB has surpassed expectations, resuming its regular flight schedule and handling approximately 1,400 flight movements daily.
With roads in and around the airport now 100% free of water accumulation, normal operations have resumed with manpower, logistics, and facilities back to usual levels. Restoring the airport to full functionality was no easy task, considering the 2,155 cancelled flights and 115 diversions. DXB collaborated closely with airline partners and service providers to adjust schedules, increase staff, and assist those affected by the disruptions.
"I’m continuously amazed by the unwavering dedication of our Dubai Airport employees, airline partners, government agencies, commercial partners and service partners. It has been the most challenging adverse weather event we’ve had to navigate, and our people and partners worked tirelessly to keep the operation running and to assist our guests", said Paul Griffiths.
Guest welfare remained a key priority throughout the disruption and although there were initial challenges in transporting supplies with road closures around DXB and Dubai World Central, over 75,000 food packs were delivered across both airports.
"While certain challenges remain, including processing the baggage backlog, we’re working closely with our service partners but know there’s still more work to be done and once again thank guests for their patience while we work through this," added Paul Griffiths.
As operations return to normal, passengers are advised to arrive at their terminal no more than three hours before their flight departure to prevent unnecessary crowding and ensure smoother operations.