Two Indonesian Flights to Dubai Diverted Following Drone Incident

The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemenlu) has confirmed that two international flights from Indonesia to the United Arab Emirates experienced landing diversions. This action was taken following the closure of UAE airspace due to an incident involving unmanned aircraft (drone) debris falling across several areas of the country on Monday, 16 March.

Acting Director of Indonesian Citizen Protection at the Foreign Ministry, Heni Hamidah, explained that there were hundreds of Indonesian passengers aboard the two Emirates airline flights.

Reports from the Indonesian representative in the UAE indicated that drone debris was found at several locations in the Dubai area, including areas adjacent to Dubai International Airport. The incident briefly caused a fire at a fuel tank near the airport.

The UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) took preventive measures by temporarily closing airspace and suspending operations at Dubai International Airport. In addition to Dubai, drone debris was also reported to have fallen in the Fujairah and Umm Al Quwain regions.

Heni Hamidah emphasised that, to date, there have been no reports of Indonesian nationals being harmed in the drone debris incident. The Foreign Ministry, through its representatives in the UAE, continues to conduct intensive coordination with local authorities and airline officials.

“So far, there are no reports of Indonesian nationals who have become victims or requested assistance regarding the incident,” Heni stated in her written statement.

Based on the latest reports from news agency WAM on Tuesday, 17 March, the GCAA reopened UAE airspace after the situation was deemed to have improved and was safe for civil aviation operations. The Indonesian representative in the UAE continues to ensure the safety and smooth travel for all affected Indonesian citizens.