Recent conflicts in the Middle East have disrupted some flights and raised questions about travel insurance, cancellations and holiday plans. If you're travelling soon, here's what you need to know before you head to the airport.
Key takeaways
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Check Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) travel advice before you travel
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Travelling against FCDO advice could affect your travel insurance cover
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The UK government says there's no need for travellers to change their travel plans because of concerns about jet fuel availability.
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Keep an eye on updates from your airline or travel provider. If your flight is cancelled, contact your airline or travel provider first
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Travel insurance doesn't usually cover you if you choose not to travel because you're worried about events at your destination
What should I do if I'm due to travel to the Middle East?
Before you travel, check the latest FCDO advice for your destination and any countries you're travelling through. The FCDO provides up-to-date information on safety, security and entry requirements. Currently they’re advising against ‘all but essential travel’ to countries in the region.
ABTA also recommends keeping in touch with your airline or travel provider, as travel arrangements can change at short notice.
What if I'm travelling through the Middle East rather than staying there?
Your journey could still be affected. Most major airlines including British Airways and KLM have suspended flights to Dubai.But, even if your final destination is elsewhere, airlines may change routes or schedules or cancel flights because of airspace restrictions.
Again, it’s always worth checking your flight status and looking out for updates from your airline before you travel.
Will my travel insurance cover me if I travel against FCDO advice?
It is unlikely you’ll be covered.
Travelling against FCDO advice can affect your travel insurance cover. If you think you'll need to travel despite the advice, speak to your insurer before you go. They'll explain what is and isn't covered under your policy.
Can I claim on my travel insurance if I decide not to travel?
Usually, no.
Travel insurance doesn't normally cover you if you decide not to travel because you're worried about events happening at your destination.
If you're unsure whether your trip can go ahead, speak to your airline or accommodation provider - they can explain your options.
What should I do if my flight is cancelled?
Contact your airline or the provider that you booked the flights with as soon as possible.
They'll tell you what's happened and explain your next steps. Depending on the circumstances, that could include rebooking your flight or arranging a refund.
What if I'm already abroad and my return journey is affected?
Get in touch with your airline or travel provider straight away.
Keep checking FCDO advice and follow any instructions from local authorities. The sooner you contact your travel provider, the sooner they can help you understand your options.
Are there jet fuel shortages affecting UK holidays?
The UK government says there's currently no need to change your travel plans because of concerns about jet fuel availability.
It has also said UK airlines continue to broadly operate normally and that fuel supply arrangements remain resilient.
What if my flight is delayed or cancelled because of fuel-related issues?
First, don't assume your holiday is off.
If your flight is affected, your airline should contact you with details of any changes and explain your options. This could include being moved to another flight or getting a refund if your flight is cancelled.
If you've booked a package holiday, your provider may also be able to help arrange alternative travel plans.
Before travelling to the airport, check your flight status and any messages from your airline.
Could travel disruption affect flights outside the Middle East?
Yes, in some cases.
When airlines avoid certain airspace, they may need to take longer routes or adjust flight schedules. This can have a knock-on effect across their wider network, even if you're not travelling to the Middle East.
That doesn't mean every flight will be affected. But some airlines may make changes to routes, departure times or schedules while travel disruption continues.
Where can I find the latest travel advice?
For the latest information, check:
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FCDO travel advice for your destination and any transit countries
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Updates from your airline
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Information from your travel provider
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ABTA travel advice and disruption updates
Travel situations can change quickly during periods of international disruption, so it's worth checking for updates regularly in the lead-up to your trip.
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