Emirates is reassessing its contingency procedures after unprecedented rainfall in the UAE in April caused the airline $110 million in damages, the airline’s president stated on Sunday.
“It was an incredibly challenging situation to manage,” Tim Clark remarked during a media briefing at the 80th International Air Transport Association annual meeting in Dubai.
“Our baggage systems were overwhelmed by water, labels were peeling off, and containers were scattered across the airfield – it was extremely difficult to control.”
“The flooding was so severe that access to the airport was cut off, making it impossible for anyone to reach the airport.”
For Emirates, this incident resulted in a “AED 400 million cost,” he added. “We determined that we had to properly address our customers’ claims and all other related issues.”
In April, Mr Clark apologised to passengers after days of disruptions, including flight cancellations and delays, as much of Dubai International Airport and its surrounding roads were flooded.
He mentioned that dozens of flights were diverted, nearly 400 were cancelled, and “many more” were delayed, with operations “still challenged by staffing and supply shortages.”
Emirates’ protocols were “under immense stress and pressure” and were overwhelmed by the situation, Mr Clark said on Sunday.
“We need to be much more proactive, if you can call it that, and if necessary, halt operations to manage the fallout,” he said.
“Stopping operations was always a last resort … we never anticipated water could cause such havoc.”
The airline is now conducting a comprehensive review of its procedures, Mr Clark stated.
“Next, we will undertake a thorough review of all processes to ensure we strengthen our defences,” he said.
“If such an event occurs again, we will still face challenges, but we hope to be better prepared by investing in manpower, ground equipment, and training.”
Emirates has a “significant contingency response team” that is prepared for various scenarios and is exercised three to four times a year.
Emirates Plans New Passenger Terminal
The airline plans to move its operations to the new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport within a decade, incorporating lessons learnt to “optimise water evacuation,” Mr Clark noted.
The new passenger terminal at DWC is expected to be completed by 2032 to 2034, with Emirates planning to relocate its extensive operations from Dubai International Airport to its new base in one swift move.
“We intend to carry out the move overnight, as best we can,” Mr Clark said.
“It will be very, very swift. The airport is designed to function as a mega hub.”
“Everything about it will enhance Emirates’ operations and those of other carriers.”
The new passenger terminal will be a “well-oiled” and “efficiently run” operation, facilitating a smoother transition, he added.
