Qatar reopened its airspace in the early hours of Tuesday (June 24) morning and shortly afterwards, Qatar Airways announced the reinstatement of flights.
In a statement, the airline said: “Our focus at this time is to help our passengers return home or reach their onward journey safely and smoothly. We are working tirelessly with government stakeholders and the relevant authorities to restore operations as quickly as possible. We have also deployed additional ground staff at Hamad International Airport (DOH) and other key airports to assist affected passengers by minimising disruptions and offering the utmost care and support to all customers.”
Last night (June 23) Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the temporary suspension of air traffic in the country’s airspace “to ensure the safety of its citizens, residents and visitors” after Iran took responsibility for missiles fired at a US base in the country.
At the time, there were three flights that had departed from airports in South Africa and all three were diverted to Salalah International Airport (SLL) in Oman, before continuing their journeys to DOH once airspace reopened.
QR1364 departing from Johannesburg (JNB) at 13h55, landed at DOH 02h41.
QR1370 departing from Cape Town (CPT) at 13h00, landed at DOH at 03h25.
QR1376 departing Durban (DUR) at 12h05, landed at DOH at 03h28.
QR1378 was due to depart from JNB at 20h25 last night, and was delayed to 23h45, landing at DOH at 08h53 approximately three hours later than originally scheduled.
Qatar Airways said it anticipated significant delays to its flight schedule and advised passengers check its website or app ahead of travel.
