Delays and cancellations to Middle East travel plans

nib Travel, part of the nib health insurance group, is urging travellers to check travel alerts and their insurance cover following the outbreak of hostilities in the Middle East, and a decision by the Australian Government to issue ‘do not travel’ alerts covering countries in the region.

Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has issued a ‘do not travel’ alert for Iraq, Iran, Israel, Lebanon, the United Arab Emirates (including Dubai), Qatar, Palestine, Bahrain, Kuwait. Further, it advises travellers they should reconsider their need to travel, at this time, to Saudi Arabia and Jordan.

The advice follows military strikes and reprisal attacks in Iran, and other locations in the Middle East.

The attacks have resulted in severe travel disruptions within the Middle East region, and globally. There are currently airspace closures and flight cancellations.

“First, we urge travellers to remain vigilant and stay safe,” said Dylan Wilkinson, Head of APAC & nib Travel Marketing at nib Travel. “The situation is volatile and changing by the hour. Even if you’re not travelling to the Middle East, your plans still may be affected. Check the Australian Government’s smart traveller website for alerts and travel status.”

Mr Wilkinson said travellers currently travelling, with nib insurance cover, should check their airline and travel provider for updates to cancellations and delays. He said those about to embark on travel that may be affected, should check the nib website at www.nib.com.au/travel-insurance/travel-alerts for details on what to do. “Check your policy for coverage,” he said. “And check with your airline and travel provider.”

Policies purchased before an event may cover some unexpected disruptions, however acts of war and armed conflict are excluded on all nib Travel policies.

Travellers who have upcoming bookings for flights that have not yet departed, your first point of contact should be your airline, cruise company or travel agent to understand your options, Mr Wilkinson said.

“Check your policy, understand your entitlements, and if you need help, get in touch with your travel insurer as soon as possible,” he said.