War’s impact and implications

Some travellers can’t get home. Others are home and can’t get away. Others are stuck in the middle.

As I write this, 10,467 flights have been cancelled since Saturday’s start of the war in the Middle East. Closure of much of the air space has severely affected WA travellers, as it has the rest of the world.

In particular, Qatar Airways and Emirates flights have been cancelled, and other airlines have to fly around the combat region, compressed into much-demanded air routes.

+ Most standard travel insurance policies do not cover for events arising from war, military action, hostilities or official airspace closures.

+ But travellers who have already been stranded due to cancellations may have travel insurance that will reimburse hotel bills and food expenses during the delay, as well as expenses incurred due to the missed flights.

ABOUT INSURANCE

Natalie Ball, managing director of Comparetravelinsurance.com.au, says travel insurance is unlikely to cover rerouting, cancellation or delay of flights linked to the conflict.

Natalie emphasises that the timing of purchase does not override this exclusion: “Even if you purchased your policy well before these events unfolded, the exclusion still applies.”

WHAT NOW?

Natalie advises travellers whose flights have been disrupted to deal directly with their airline or travel provider first. She explains: “If the airline cancels your flight, you are generally entitled to a refund or alternative transport.”

SHOULD YOU GO

If you are booked to visit or transit affected parts of the Middle East, monitor official advisories and airline communications closely. Stay in contact with the airline or booking agent and understand what flexibility is available.

+ We will have a full, updated story in Saturday Travel.