An Etihad Airways flight from Abu Dhabi safely landed at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru amid growing concerns about air travel due to escalating tensions in the Middle East involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.
Flight EY-262 arrived without any disruptions despite fears among travellers and their families following reports of conflict and drone activity in parts of the region.
Passengers say situation in UAE remains stable
Passengers arriving from Abu Dhabi said that while concerns exist due to the ongoing tensions, the situation in the United Arab Emirates remains comparatively stable.
Some travellers noted that conditions in the UAE appeared calmer than in countries such as Kuwait and Bahrain, which have witnessed heightened anxiety due to regional developments.
A passenger working in the healthcare sector in Abu Dhabi said daily life and services were continuing normally.
“There is no major problem. The government has been very helpful and supportive. We are working in the healthcare department and everything is running smoothly. Personally, the situation is okay now,” the passenger said.
Travellers warn against spreading fake news
Several passengers also urged people not to panic and advised them to rely on official updates rather than rumours circulating on social media.
One traveller said reports claiming that major landmarks in Dubai had been attacked were completely false.
“Some media reports and social media posts are showing that Burj Khalifa or other places in Dubai have been hit. These are fake news. Things are normal. Offices, malls and businesses are functioning as usual,” the passenger said.
Passengers explained that when drones are intercepted, debris may fall and smoke may be visible, which sometimes leads to confusion and exaggerated claims online.
Special flights bring back Indian citizens
Meanwhile, special flights have been operating to bring Indian nationals home amid the ongoing West Asia airspace situation.
Passengers arriving at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi said local authorities in Abu Dhabi had issued advisories asking residents to remain indoors and move to safe zones if required.
Additional flights from Abu Dhabi have also landed at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, while a special flight from Dubai carrying Indian nationals arrived at Cochin International Airport in Kerala.
Travellers expressed hope that the conflict will end soon so that Indians working across the Middle East can continue their lives and livelihoods without fear.