Doha, March 07 (QNA) - Following temporary authorisation from the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority confirming a safe operating corridor, Qatar Airways will operate repatriation flights on Saturday, March 07, departing from Hamad International Airport to the following airports: London (LHR), Paris (CDG), Madrid (MAD), Rome (FCO) and Frankfurt (FRA).

In a statement on Friday, Qatar Airways said that priority on these flights was given to stranded passengers with families, elderly passengers, and those with urgent medical and compassionate travel needs. Each flight was pre-allocated by Qatar Airways directly to such affected passengers.

The airline affirmed that it is continuing its round-the-clock efforts to organize additional evacuation flights when operational conditions allow, noting that travelers will be provided with further updates as soon as they are confirmed.

It also clarified that this step does not constitute the resumption of scheduled operations, as Qatar Airways continues to temporarily suspend its flights while Qatar's airspace remains closed. The airline noted that it will resume normal operations once an announcement is issued by the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority regarding the safe reopening of the airspace, subject to approval by the relevant authorities.

Qatar Airways urged passengers not to proceed to the airport unless they have received official notification regarding their flights, stressing that it will contact affected travelers directly to provide updates on flight schedules, travel arrangements, and required procedures.

Passengers were also advised to ensure that their contact details are up to date so the airline can provide them with flight information and necessary instructions. Contact details can be updated via the airline's website, qatarairways.com, or through the Qatar Airways mobile app.

Qatar Airways stressed that the safety of its passengers and employees will always remain its top priority, apologizing for any inconvenience caused by circumstances beyond its control and thanking travelers for their patience and understanding.

Passengers holding confirmed bookings for travel between February 28 and March 15 may change their travel dates or obtain a refund of the unused ticket without cancellation fees. (QNA)