Perth, March 2: The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) is warning travellers not to cancel flights or holiday plans amid the escalating Middle East situation, urging Australians to seek professional advice first and to avoid overwhelming travel agents unless their trip is imminent.
ATIA said it is closely monitoring airspace restrictions across parts of the Gulf region, which are already affecting international flight operations through key transit hubs, triggering cancellations, delays and rerouting across multiple airlines.
ATIA CEO Dean Long also advised travellers to check the latest Smartraveller updates and review potential insurance implications, noting that travel agents and insurers can provide guidance tailored to individual circumstances.
ATIA has urged travellers not to contact their travel agent unless they are travelling in the next 48 hours and have not already been contacted, so that those immediately affected can be prioritised.
“The situation across the Middle East is evolving rapidly and is already disrupting international flight operations for Australians travelling via major hubs including Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha.”
“Emirates, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways are the most directly impacted at this stage, but European and other international carriers routing through Gulf airspace are also experiencing delays and rerouting. The impact is broader than many travellers may expect.”
“Our members are actively supporting impacted clients, managing rebookings, securing alternative routes and providing up-to-date advice in what is a highly fluid environment.”
“Our message to travellers is simple 1) do not cancel arrangements without first seeking professional advice; 2) please unless you are travelling in the next 48 hours and have not been contacted, hold off contacting your travel agent right not to allow them to support those currently caught up in, and who are stranded, delayed and dealing with cancellations. The situation is evolving rapidly, and experienced travel professionals are best placed to provide up-to-date guidance tailored to each traveller’s circumstances.”
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