Extra Etihad Airways flights to clear yesterday's runway closure

The airline has also drafted hundreds of extra staff across its network to assist passengers whose travel plans were impacted due to the failure of the airport’s runway landing systems.

Flights to destinations across the Middle East, Indian Sub-Continent and Western Europe have already departed today as the flight schedule gradually returns to normal.

Passengers are advised to expect ongoing delays as a result of the large number of flights and passengers affected.

A statement from the airline said: "Yesterday’s circumstances were beyond our control. We are doing everything we can to minimise the disruption and apologise to all passengers who continue to be affected.

"In Abu Dhabi we are providing accommodation for more than a thousand guests who have missed their onward connections.

"Passengers are advised to visit the Etihad Airways website at www.etihad.com or contact the Etihad Airways Contact Centre on +971 (0) 2599 0000 for more information on the status of flights in and out of Abu Dhabi Airport."