Jazeera Airways Activates Emergency Response, Ready to Resume Flights When Kuwait Reopens

2026-03-04 - 13:07

The Times Kuwait Report Jazeera Airways is fully prepared to resume operations immediately once Kuwait’s airspace reopens, Barathan Pasupathi, Chief Executive Officer of Jazeera Airways, told The Times Kuwait in an exclusive interview. Speaking on the evolving regional security situation and its impact on aviation, Pasupathi said the airline moved swiftly to activate its emergency response protocols the moment disruptions began. Immediate Emergency Action “When the situation unfolded, we immediately activated our emergency response plan,” Pasupathi said. “Our priority from the first minute was passenger safety and ensuring an orderly evacuation from the terminal.” Several inbound flights, including services from Egypt and India, were affected. Among the impacted passengers were passengers of various nationalities. In total, nearly 190 passengers of different nationalities are being accommodated and supported by the airline. “Through coordinated efforts, including City Bus transfers and diplomatic clearances, we ensured the safe onward movement of several passengers to KSA. At this stage, only a few of the passengers remain in Kuwait,” Pasupathi highlighted. “We continue to house and support them while working closely with the authorities.” Pasupathi clarified that the current situation falls under Force Majeure conditions. “Passengers may choose to leave and make alternative travel arrangements at their own expense, as this is an extraordinary situation beyond the airline’s control,” he stated. “However, despite this, we have continued to provide all possible care and assistance.” Currently, stranded Jazeera transit passengers are being accommodated at three different hotels. “We are ensuring that passengers are safe, comfortable, and regularly updated. Care, meals, and logistical support are also being provided continuously,” Pasupathi added. Terminal Secure, Fleet Ready Despite regional instability, Jazeera Airways confirmed that its dedicated terminal remains ready for commencement and operations. “Our terminal is fully protected,” Pasupathi said. “We have carried out engineering inspections, and all our aircraft have been cleared as airworthy. Our fleet is fully fit for flying in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.” He noted that additional precautionary measures have been implemented, including identifying secure shelter areas near the terminal and head office in case of any external hazards. “We have reviewed safety scenarios, including airspace risks, and taken all necessary internal precautions,” he said. Saudi Operations Resume While flights from Kuwait remain suspended pending regulatory clearance, Jazeera Airways has resumed select operations from Saudi Arabia, particularly to serve the Umrah market. “We launched our first post-disruption flight from Saudi Arabia earlier this week and are adding more services,” Pasupathi disclosed. “Our focus is on bringing Umrah passengers from CIS countries and Russia directly into Saudi Arabia.” With several GCC carriers unable to operate certain routes, Jazeera is working closely with regulators and governments to maintain direct connectivity where permitted. “Saudi Arabia continues with domestic and international operations, and we are aligning our network accordingly,” he said. Exploring Border Airport Options Jazeera Airways is also evaluating contingency plans to support Kuwait’s travel market if airspace restrictions continue. “We are studying the possibility of operating from airports close to Kuwait’s borders,” Pasupathi explained. “If regulatory approvals are granted and conditions are safe, passengers could travel by road and connect to international flights from neighboring airports.” He emphasized, however, that such plans depend entirely on government approvals and security assessments. Close Coordination with Civil Aviation The airline reiterated that it operates strictly under the supervision of Kuwait’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). “We are in constant communication with civil aviation authorities,” Pasupathi said. “Safety is paramount. No airline can operate without full coordination with air traffic control, airport authorities, and security agencies. We are fully aligned with all directives.” He stressed that Jazeera Airways will resume flights only when clearance is officially granted and conditions are deemed safe. Supporting Staff and Customers During Crisis Pasupathi highlighted that the airline has implemented daily emergency response meetings covering operations, crew deployment, passenger support, and safety updates. “We are reviewing everything daily — from aircraft positioning in Jordan and Egypt to crew welfare and passenger care,” he said. Employee well-being has also been prioritized. “We learned during COVID that mental health and communication are critical,” he noted. “There is anxiety during times like this. We are maintaining daily engagement with our teams to ensure their well-being.” Passengers are being kept informed through clear communication channels, and advance notice will be given once operations resume. Ready for Takeoff Jazeera Airways remains confident in its readiness. “All our aircraft are fit. Our pilots and cabin crew are prepared,” Pasupathi affirmed. “The moment Kuwait reopens its airspace, we are ready to return to the skies.” While observing how other regional carriers are managing limited operations, Pasupathi expressed optimism that Kuwait will reopen in a safe and coordinated manner. “Kuwait cannot remain closed indefinitely. When the right time comes and authorities give clearance, we will be fully ready to serve the market,” he said. Until then, Jazeera Airways remains on standby, prepared, vigilant, and committed to restoring connectivity for Kuwait and the wider region at the earliest possible opportunity.