Kuwait issues alert warning travellers over unauthorised airlines

Kuwait’s aviation authority has issued a public alert advising travellers to avoid booking tickets with airlines that are not officially authorised to operate in the country.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in Kuwait said the advisory is aimed at protecting passenger rights and ensuring proper regulation of air traffic operations.

In a statement carried by the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), DGCA spokesman Abdullah Al Rajhi said only two airlines Kuwait Airways and Jazeera Airways are currently authorised to operate flights in and out of Kuwait International Airport. He added that other carriers have not yet obtained the required approvals.

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The authority warned passengers against purchasing tickets from unapproved airlines, saying such bookings could lead to complications including flight cancellations or difficulties in receiving refunds. Travellers who have already booked tickets through unauthorised carriers were advised to submit complaints via Kuwait’s government-run Sahel application.

Officials said the Sahel app is the official digital platform used in Kuwait for lodging and tracking consumer and travel-related complaints. Authorities will review submissions and take action against any airlines found violating aviation regulations.

The DGCA also emphasised that legal measures will be taken against airlines operating without proper authorisation, as part of efforts to maintain compliance and protect passengers from financial or travel disruptions.

The advisory comes amid broader efforts by Kuwaiti authorities to regulate air traffic and improve oversight of travel services in the country.