UAE suspends flights to China

The UAE says it is suspending all flights to and from China, with the exception of the country's capital, Beijing, which will remain unaffected.

The suspension will begin from 5th February, 2020 - until further notice according to the General Civil Aviation Authority.

They say the decision is part of precautionary measures undertaken by the UAE to confront the outbreak of the new coronavirus.

All passengers travelling from Beijing International Airport will be required to undergo a 6-8 hour comprehensive medical screening at the airport to ensure the safety of passengers before boarding.

The GCAA said the decision to suspend flights came after studying and analysing the current conditions on the spread of the virus, and it had coordinated with both national and  international agencies such as the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority, NCEMA, the Ministry of Health and Prevention, MoHAP, Etihad Airways and Emirates Airlines.

The situation in China is being continuously evaluated and decisions will be made accordingly.

Passengers should contact their airlines for updates on affected flights.