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The United Arab Emirates General Civil Aviation Authority has confirmed that air services between the UAE and Algeria will continue operating normally despite Algeria’s notification to suspend the bilateral air transport agreement. According to a statement released on February 8, 2026, the suspension follows standard international aviation protocols and will not result in immediate disruption to flight operations between the two nations.
The aviation authority explained that the air transport agreement remains in effect during a mandatory legal notice period stipulated under international aviation frameworks. During this transition phase, all scheduled flights between Algerian and Emirati airports will proceed without interruption, ensuring passengers and cargo services maintain their regular schedules.
Background on UAE Algeria Air Services Agreement
Air transport agreements between countries establish the framework for commercial aviation operations, including flight frequencies, routes, and carrier designations. The bilateral air services agreement between the UAE and Algeria has governed aviation relations between the two countries for years, facilitating both passenger and freight connections across the Mediterranean and Gulf regions.
However, Algeria’s decision to suspend the agreement reflects changing bilateral dynamics. The Algerian government has not publicly disclosed specific reasons for the suspension notification, leaving aviation industry observers to speculate about underlying diplomatic or commercial factors.
Diplomatic Channels Remain Open
The UAE General Civil Aviation Authority emphasized that coordination continues through official channels with all relevant parties. According to the authority’s statement, the situation is being handled with professionalism and responsibility, adhering to established legal and diplomatic frameworks that govern international aviation relations.
Additionally, the authority stressed its commitment to managing these developments transparently while prioritizing the interests of travelers and airlines operating on routes connecting the two nations. The measured response suggests efforts to maintain aviation ties despite the formal suspension notice.
Impact on Airlines and Passengers
Major carriers operating between the UAE and Algeria include both Emirati and Algerian national airlines, along with potential codeshare arrangements. These airlines serve business travelers, tourists, and the significant expatriate communities residing in both countries. Meanwhile, the suspension notification raises questions about long-term route planning and capacity allocation once the legal notice period expires.
In contrast to sudden airspace closures or immediate flight cancellations seen in other international aviation disputes, the procedural nature of this suspension provides airlines with time to adjust operational plans. Industry analysts note that advance notice allows carriers to communicate with passengers and explore alternative arrangements if negotiations do not resolve the underlying issues.
Regional Aviation Context
The UAE serves as a major aviation hub connecting Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East through its world-class airport infrastructure in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Algerian routes contribute to this network by linking North Africa with Gulf markets. Furthermore, bilateral air services agreements form the foundation of the UAE’s aviation strategy, which has positioned the country as a global transit point.
Other North African countries maintain active air services agreements with the UAE, providing alternative connectivity options should direct UAE Algeria air services face long-term restrictions. However, direct routes offer commercial and time advantages that indirect connections cannot fully replicate.
The notice period duration remains unclear based on available information, and authorities have not confirmed whether negotiations are underway to address Algerian concerns. The coming weeks will likely determine whether diplomatic efforts can resolve the issues leading to the suspension notification or whether the agreement will formally lapse after the legal notice period concludes.
