A repatriation flight carrying more than 400 Greek nationals departed from Dubai International Airport on Saturday, March 7, 2026, after several hours of delay. The charter flight EK2553 was originally scheduled to depart at 11 a.m., then rescheduled to 12:30 p.m., and finally took off at 6 p.m.
Drone Incident Triggers Security Response
Earlier that day, authorities intercepted a drone flying over Dubai International Airport — the main aviation hub of the United Arab Emirates. The incident prompted an immediate security response and led to the temporary suspension of flights for several hours.
Arrival in Athens Expected Late Saturday Night
The flight is expected to land at Athens International Airport ‘Eleftherios Venizelos’ after 11:30 p.m. A second repatriation flight is also scheduled to depart from Dubai, carrying additional Greek citizens.