The conflict in the Middle East has created worry and uncertainty for all involved and the sympathies are with those caught up in the conflict. As each day unfolds it’s clear that the impact is widespread, with people affected in various areas of the Middle East and in further flung destinations planning to transit through the Middle East. As usual, the travel industry has stepped up to the challenge of a complex and fast moving situation and focussed on the safety and well-being of all affected customers.   

Whilst you, the members, are working tirelessly to solve problems, field questions and understand the constantly changing information in order to provide the best possible service and reassurance for your customers, we have initiated the crisis response team at ABTA to support you.

The experts are working to help across a number of fronts. The Destinations team are liaising directly with the FCDO, airlines and the members and issuing operational bulletins each day.  We’ve been conducting extensive media engagement to secure coverage across online and national media and updating the website and social media channels to help advise customers on what actions they should take and their cancellation rights for imminent departures. 

ABTA members are showing extraordinary tenacity and resilience to deal with the impact of current disruption, and we’ll continue to remind customers on a daily basis of the importance of booking with an ABTA travel agent or tour operator.

For all of the latest information visit the Member Zone.