EMIRATES has cancelled plans to return to the North-East this year as passenger demand is affected by current coronavirus travel restrictions.

The airline, which operates the Newcastle to Dubai service, has suspended all bookings for the service for the rest of 2020.

It had previously confirmed that it would be returning to the region from December 2, with almost daily flights throughout the winter period.

SEE MORE: The Newcastle to Dubai service will RETURN to the North-East in December 

But flights for the route in 2020 have been pulled from the website with bookings now available in 2021.

Newcastle Airport confirmed that Emirates flights would now go on sale from March 31, 2021.

An airport spokesperson said: "As with many other airlines at the moment, Emirates has adjusted its schedule to reflect passenger demand as well as taking into account current travel restrictions imposed within the UK, Dubai and at the onward destination.

"Flights are on sale from the 31st March 2021 and we are very much looking forward to their return to the North-East."​

  • The Northern Echo contacted Emirates for comment but did not receive a response at time of publication.