What the conflict in Iran means for your holiday

As global tensions rise in the Middle East, many travellers are questioning the impact on their upcoming plans. 

What to do if you have flights booked to the Middle East.

While US President, Donald Trump, has declared the conflict between Iran and Israel is over, whether the ceasefire holds and the likelihood of further escalation remain uncertain.

What’s happening in the skies

Amann has also been affected by the current conflict.

Overnight, during Iran’s attacks on a US air base in Qatar, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates shut down their airspaces, derailing flights. These have since been reopened. Airlines are being forced to adapt flight routes due to conflicts in the region. In response to Israel’s attacks on Iran and the United States’ strikes on three nuclear facilities, major international airlines have suspended or rerouted flights that typically pass over Israel, Iran, and parts of the surrounding airspace.

Many airlines have cancelled flights in the region to destinations such as Tel Aviv, Amman in Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq and Syria. The conflict triggers airspace restrictions, leading to flight delays, diversions and in some cases, outright cancellations. 

What does it mean for travellers?

Flight times to Dubai could be impacted.

With airlines avoiding the airspace over Iran, Iraq, Israel and Jordan, flight paths have narrowed as they are rerouted over Saudi Arabia and Egypt. For those flying to Europe through Dubai or Doha for example, flight time will likely increase and delays are likely. Dean Long, CEO of The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA), says the closure of airspace is nothing new.

“Global airlines have systems in place to manage these disruptions. We’ve seen this before, and the travel ecosystem is built to respond. Airlines have been rerouting around Russia and Ukraine for more than two years, and are now adjusting again. The airlines that fly to Australia have world leading safety protocols and route management,” adds Long.

What should travellers do?

Syrian airspace has been effected by the conflict.

With uncertainty in the air, comprehensive travel insurance is an absolute must. Tim Bennett, insurance expert at Finder, warns if you take out travel insurance after the fact, you might not be covered. “As soon as a conflict or event happens in the world, it will be considered a 'known event'. Any travel insurance policy purchased after a known event starts won't be able to make a claim because of that event.”

“So, if your travel is disrupted because of airspace being closed or due to some international conflict, you'll need to have already had your travel insurance policy in place to make a claim. That's why it's so important to get travel insurance as soon as you book your flights or accommodation. That way anything that disrupts your travel between booking and starting your trip can still be covered.”

What to do if your holiday is impacted

If your travel plans are affected, Natalie Ball, managing director of Comparetravelinsurance.com.au, says travellers should first contact their airline or accommodation providers to explore refunds or credit options.   

“Given the current escalation, major airlines may offer cash refunds or flight credits. Some accommodation providers may offer flexible cancellations or rescheduling options, but this will depend on the terms and conditions that apply to your booking,” says Ball.

Should you cancel your upcoming holiday?

Double check those flight plans to Kuwait City.

ATIA advises travellers to remain informed and, most importantly, not to cancel their flights. Airlines have well-established systems in place to navigate such restrictions, and have been operating under constrained conditions since the start of the Ukraine conflict.

Ultimately, the decision to travel depends on your personal risk tolerance and comfort level. If you’re really uneasy about flying through the Middle East, change or delay your plans. Whether you receive compensation depends on the airline and when you took our travel insurance. 

• Stay informed: keep an eye on your flight status. Your airline will contact you should there be changes to your flight. Check the government’s advice on your destination on Smartraveller. Generally, insurers will not cover you if the destination has an official government warning advising “Do not travel” or “Reconsider your need to travel.” As the situation is evolving, monitor local and international news for any changes, and always follow official warnings.

• Avoid cancelling flights independently The ATIA points out that when an airline cancels your flights you are entitled to a full refund. When you cancel it, your fare type will dictate whether you’re eligible for a refund.

• Prepare for delays and keep essentials in your carry-on With delays or diversions likely, have a change of clothes, travel-sized toiletries and medications with you.
• Share your itinerary with family This includes hotels and flight numbers so they know where you are. 
• Be alert Smartraveller warns that conflict in the Middle East could impact safety and security elsewhere, with a risk of reprisal, protests and further escalation. Terrorist attacks can increase around tourist hotspots and embassies. Stay alert in public spaces and report anything suspicious to local authorities.

Originally published as What the conflict in Iran means for your holiday