22 Middle East flights disrupted at Phuket Airport as Etihad jet turns back

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Phuket International Airport reports 22 disrupted flights involving Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Air Arabia and Unicair, after escalating Middle East hostilities forced schedule changes, including the return of an Etihad flight to Abu Dhabi for safety reasons.

BANGKOK, Thailand – As of 8:00 a.m. on March 1, 2026, Phuket International Airport (HKT) reported that ongoing hostilities in the Middle East have disrupted 22 flights across four airlines: Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Unicair (private flights), and Air Arabia. The disruptions include 11 arrivals and 11 departures.

On February 28, 2026, Etihad Airways flight ETD 417 to Abu Dhabi departed Phuket at 3:30 p.m. After reassessing the security situation in the Middle East, the airline chose to return to Phuket for the safety of passengers and crew. The aircraft landed safely at 8:30 p.m.



Airport management advises passengers traveling to the Middle East to confirm their flight status with their airlines and allow extra time for airport procedures. An information desk is available on the 3rd floor of the International Terminal. For further assistance, please contact the airport hotline at 0-7635-2302.

Airlines are evaluating each situation and assisting affected passengers. Phuket International Airport remains on high alert and is closely monitoring regional developments. Ongoing uncertainty may lead to further changes in international flights. (NNT)