The situation across the Middle East continues to evolve, with airspace closures and operational changes impacting travel to, from and via key regional hubs.
At Orbit World Travel, we are closely monitoring developments in real time. Our team is in direct contact with airline partners, global networks and on-ground suppliers to ensure our clients receive accurate information and timely support.
Your safety and continuity of travel remain our priority.
The details shared are for informational purposes. Traveller’s should rely on their organisation’s official travel advice and adhere to any restrictions or approval processes related to travel involving the Middle East.
For the most up-to-date official information, please refer to:
+ Safe Travel Middle East Security Situation
+ MFAT Middle East
+ Emirates Travel Alerts
+ Etihad Airways Travel Alerts
+ Qatar Airways Travel Alerts
We are available 24/7 for support, contact us via your usual corporate phone number and email. If your travel is within the next 72 hours and urgent, please contact us immediately.
Military conflict in the Middle East has resulted in airspace closures, flight cancellations, and routing changes, impacting travel within the region and globally. Airline policies regarding waivers, refunds, and rebooking are being updated progressively as the situation evolves.
There has also been increased media coverage regarding global fuel supply and pricing, which may be causing uncertainty for travellers. Based on information from airline and airport partners, there are currently no fuel supply concerns that would result in passengers being stranded. Airlines and airports continue to operate, and there are no known travel disruptions due to fuel availability at this time.
What is being seen globally is ongoing pressure on fuel pricing, which may lead to:
Where changes occur, airlines typically provide advance notice and, where possible, alternative flight options for affected travellers.
If your itinerary includes transit through Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi or surrounding airspace, your flight may be cancelled, delayed or rerouted, even where your final destination is Europe, the UK, Africa or Asia.
Live updates direct from airlines can be found here:
+ Emirates Travel Alerts
+ Etihad Airways Travel Alerts
+ Qatar Airways Travel Alerts
Travellers are strongly advised to check their airline’s website and confirm flight status directly before travelling to the airport.
Air New Zealand has advised that it continues to operate services across its network and is actively managing the impacts of volatility in global jet fuel markets.
Air New Zealand continues to closely monitor fuel market conditions and apply operational planning to ensure reliable travel for customers.
Orbit remains committed to the highest standard of Duty of Care. Our team is:
We are experiencing a significant increase in calls and email enquiries. To ensure those with imminent travel receive timely support, enquiries are prioritised by departure date.
If you are travelling within 72 hours
If your travel is more than 72 hours away
Travellers can still reach Europe by routing via Canada, South America, Asia or Australia, all of which remain open despite Middle East airspace closures.
Canada – Flights to Vancouver with onward European connections.
South America – Auckland → Buenos Aires, then across the Atlantic to Europe.
Asia – Major hubs include Singapore, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Seoul, Kuala Lumpur, Taipei, and major Chinese hubs.
Australia – Perth offers direct flights to London, Paris and seasonal Rome services. Travellers can connect via Air New Zealand or Qantas.
This remains a fluid and rapidly changing situation. Further disruptions or extensions to airline suspensions are possible. At this stage, the primary impact outside of airspace closures remains pricing rather than fuel‑related travel disruption.
Passenger safety remains the highest priority for airlines and for Orbit. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work through disruptions and support all impacted travellers.
If you require assistance, please contact your usual Orbit phone or email, alternatively the office can be reached on:
0800 267 248
We are always here to help our travellers.
