MSC Cruises has organized a series of repatriation flights for more than 1,500 guests who had been on board MSC Euribia in Dubai, allowing them to depart the region following travel disruptions affecting parts of the Middle East.
According to an update released by the company on the morning of March 6th, seven flights carrying passengers from the vessel had departed the region. The repatriation effort included dedicated charter flights arranged and financed by MSC Cruises, as well as seats secured on scheduled services through partnerships with airlines including Emirates and flydubai. Some passengers also returned to their home countries through government-organized evacuation flights.
The guests have been transported to a number of international destinations, among them the United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, Spain, the United States and Brazil.
MSC Cruises indicated that the operation required coordination between its shipboard command, global operational teams, airline partners and relevant authorities. Executive Chairman Pierfrancesco Vago stated that the repatriation effort represented a complex logistical undertaking and noted that company personnel across several departments had worked continuously to assist passengers in returning home.
He also acknowledged the efforts of the vessel’s officers and crew in ensuring the wellbeing of guests during the situation, while company teams ashore coordinated travel arrangements. In addition, he expressed appreciation for the cooperation provided by airline partners and governmental authorities, noting that Emirates and regional officials had contributed to the organization of flight operations and regulatory approvals.
MSC Cruises reported that some guests remained on board MSC Euribia in Dubai while the company continued arrangements to facilitate their departure from the region.