The US and Israeli bombing of Iran and spreading tensions in the Middle East airspace have led to the closure of airspace, and consequently, global airlines have to cancel or reroute flights.
Three of the world’s largest airlines have operations in the area: Emirates and Etihad, both in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Qatar Airways, based in Qatar.
Emirates airline said:
“Due to multiple regional airspace closures, Emirates has temporarily suspended all operations to and from Dubai, up until 3pm UAE time on Monday, March 2.”
Etihad Airways said:
“Regional airspace closures continue to impact Etihad’s operations, and all flights to and from Abu Dhabi are suspended.”
Qatar Airways has temporarily suspended operations due to the closure of Qatari airspace. Virgin Atlantic said it is continuing to avoid Iraqi airspace, resulting in some pre-planned rerouting of flights.
In the meantime, Easyjet has cancelled flights to Cyprus temporarily after an RAF base was attacked .
How can I get compensation/refund?
If your flight has cancelled due to this war, or indeed any armed conflict, or other “extraordinary circumstances” your travel insurer will refer you to the airline for refunds, unless you have specifically paid for a ‘Travel Disruption’ extension. Having said that, some policies allow FCDO-related cancellation if the advice changed within 31 days of travel, but this is not standard so do check.
In these circumstances, airlines do not have to pay out cash compensation, but you still have legal rights to refunds, care, and rebooking.
Should I cancel my flight?
Under no circumstances should you cancel your flight tickets during this scenario. If you do, you will lose all consumer rights and any claims to a refund.
Right now, airspace is likely to remain out of bounds for a while, and as such, flights are being cancelled by the airlines. You can expect a refund for the flight. So hold your nerve.
My flight is part of a package.
If your flight is part of a package deal booked with a tour operator, then you are getting the highest level of consumer protection by buying a proper package holiday. You can expect a refund for your holiday if it has to be cancelled. Flights and holidays are normally only cancelled a few days in advance and based on Foreign Office advice.
TUI has issued an update to all passengers saying:
“Due to Airspace restrictions in parts of the region, some flights to and from the UK have been impacted and may experience delays and cancellations. If you are due to travel on holiday to any destination within these areas up to and including the 8th March, our pre-travel team will be in contact with you ahead of your departure date.”
I booked my holiday and its components independently
If you booked the holiday independently, refer to the airline for a refund on the cancelled flight. You are likely to lose all the money you have spent on accommodation and car hire, as this is unlikely to be covered by your travel insurance either. Your best bet is to approach the accommodation or car hire provider and negotiate with them.
What about my future booking?
For future bookings, all you can do is see what happens. If you are worried and cancel the trip you won’t be eligible for compensation or refunds, and advance payments will be lost.
The Foreign Office has advised British nationals in Bahrain, Israel, Palestine, Qatar and the the United Arab Emirates to register with the UK Government to receive updates on the situation.