The Emirati low-cost carrier Air Arabia has announced the suspension of several flight services between Sharjah (SHJ) and Moscow (DME) for the remainder of the summer season. Effective from July 10 through August 31, 2026, the airline will halt specific rotations, impacting travel plans for hundreds of passengers during the peak vacation period. The decision affects key flight numbers G9 805/806 and G9 956/957, necessitating immediate adjustments for ticket holders.
Operational Changes and Technical Adjustments
Prior to the full suspension of these specific routes on July 10, the carrier has introduced interim operational changes. Flights designated as G9 806 departing from Moscow will continue to operate until July 9, but will include a technical stopover in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Technical stops are typically utilized for refueling or crew changes without the boarding or deboarding of local passengers. Travelers scheduled on these earlier dates should account for extended travel times due to the additional landing.
Refund Policies and Rebooking Options
Air Arabia has outlined several compensatory measures for individuals affected by the cancellations during the July-August window. The airline is offering the following alternatives to minimize passenger inconvenience:
- A one-time free change of the departure date, provided the new flight is within five days of the end of August.
- A full refund issued as a credit voucher for future travel with the airline.
- A monetary refund to the original method of payment used during the booking process.
For passengers who purchased their tickets using ruble-denominated bank cards, the airline has specified that refund processing is available through the Air Arabia Moscow office. This localized service ensures that currency conversion and regional banking restrictions are managed directly by the carrier's representative office.
The temporary reduction in flight frequency between the United Arab Emirates and the Russian capital reflects ongoing adjustments in the international aviation market. While these specific rotations are paused, travelers are advised to monitor the airline's official schedule for alternative flight numbers that may remain operational or to coordinate with travel agents for rerouting options through regional hubs.