Some passengers on Emirates flight EK086 bound for Dubai endured a challenging night at Zurich Airport after their flight was delayed overnight on July 19 due to a technical issue.
Of the 300 travellers, some were provided with hotel accommodation, while others, particularly those with single-entry Schengen visas, were unable to leave the airport terminal. With most airport facilities and restaurants closing at 11pm, these 20-odd passengers found themselves effectively stranded, with limited access to food, proper rest facilities, or clear information.
Dubai-based Iranian expat Negin Jafari’s European summer break with her friend Sanaz ended on a sour note after they spent more than 20 hours at Zurich Airport. “We checked our early from the hotel and reached the airport at 5pm. Our flight was scheduled for 10.15pm, and when the passengers began queuing at the gate, Emirates staff asked us to wait due to a delay,” Negin told Khaleej Times.
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“Around 11pm, the airport lights started shutting down and everyone was left confused. That’s when staff informed us that the flight had been cancelled and simultaneously were received text messages from Emirates.
“Some of us literally had nowhere to go due to our entry permit; others were given hotel accommodation, and they could leave the airport,” Negin said. “The Emirates staff tried to help, but the accommodation inside the airport was already full. Around 2am, we were finally given makeshift beds in a corridor, but by 7am, we were woken up so they could clear the space.”
Negin claimed that the facility manager soon asked them to vacate the area to make way for incoming guests. With limited seating in the waiting area, some were left standing for hours.
Although the passengers had hoped to access the Emirates lounge, they were only allowed to briefly freshen up. “We were not allowed inside, as the lounge didn’t open until 11:30am,” Negin said
A few passengers were rebooked on a 3.30pm flight on July 20, while others had to wait until 8pm to depart.
“My back was in terrible pain, and I couldn’t sit the entire time. But thankfully, we made it home safely,” said Negin, who has been living in the UAE for 23 years. “If this had happened at Dubai Airport, passengers wouldn’t have had to go through all of this.”
In a statement to Khaleej Times, an Emirates spokesperson confirmed the delay. “Emirates flight EK086 from Zurich to Dubai on July 19 experienced an overnight delay due to a technical issue. Affected passengers have been provided with food and refreshments, and hotel accommodation where possible.
“Regrettably, some passengers were unable to leave the airport; however, we worked closely with the airport authority to ensure they received the best possible support under the circumstances.”
The airline added that the flight was rescheduled for departure at 8pm local time on July 20.
“Emirates sincerely apologises for any inconvenience caused. The safety of our passengers and crew is of the utmost importance,” the spokesperson added.
Ajanta Paul
Ajanta Paul is a Senior Editor on the Digital team. A natural leader and newshound, she thrives in breaking news and high-pressure situations — and enjoys reporting on community issues that matter to UAE residents.
