**Dubai-based Emirates Faces Flight Challenges Amid War** In the midst of a prolonged conflict, Emirates, the world's largest international airline, is struggling to maintain its flight schedules. The airline has been operating flights from Dubai to various destinations worldwide, but the return journeys are often near-empty, a stark contrast to the usual full flights. According to data from the airline, flights from the United States and Europe are among the hardest hit, with some planes returning from cities like Prague and Budapest with as few as 5-10% of passengers on board. For instance, aircraft flying back from New York have had only a fifth of their capacity occupied. In one case, an Airbus A380 jet, which typically seats around 500 passengers, had fewer than 35 passengers on board. Similarly, flights departing from Chicago have had half-empty cabins. On the other hand, flights leaving Dubai show a different picture, with more passengers departing on the reduced number of planes available. The airline is also grappling with a significant number of no-shows, with thousands of passengers failing to board their flights every day. To mitigate this, Emirates has been offering refunds and flexible rescheduling options for passengers until the end of the month. In recent times, Emirates has faced disruptions due to the conflict, including a drone attack near Dubai International Airport earlier in the week. This incident highlights the challenges faced by the airline in maintaining its operations amidst the ongoing tensions. In Nigeria, such disruptions can have significant implications for travelers, with many relying on Emirates for international flights. The airline's struggles may lead to increased airfares, reduced travel options, and longer travel times, affecting both business and leisure travelers. As the conflict continues, it remains to be seen how Emirates will navigate these challenges and restore its network. For now, the airline's near-empty flights are a testament to the complex and unpredictable nature of global travel in times of conflict.