Emirates bird strike in Delhi delays Dubai return flight

An Emirates aircraft arriving in Delhi from Dubai encountered a bird strike on Saturday, October 17, delaying its return journey while repairs were carried out, The Economic Times reported, citing an airline statement. Emirates said the Dubai-bound service was expected to leave Delhi at 7 am local time on Sunday, October 18.

The airline identified the delayed return service as EK517 and said it was arranging hotel accommodation for affected passengers. It apologised for the disruption and said passenger and crew safety would not be compromised. The revised departure time was an expectation, not confirmation that the flight had taken off.

Separate Saudi flight suspension extended

In a separate disruption, Air India and Air India Express extended their temporary suspension of flights to and from Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam until October 24, 2026. The report linked the suspension to Houthi rebel strikes in Saudi Arabia; Air India’s advisory cited the prevailing situation.

Under the advisory, passengers with confirmed bookings issued on or before October 15, for travel between October 9 and October 25, 2026, can make a one-time complimentary date change on their respective airline for travel up to November 10. Eligible passengers may instead rebook from an alternative station in the Gulf Cooperation Council region served by their airline, subject to availability.