West Asia Turmoil: Indian Travel Agents Note Increase in Booking Cancellations, Advise Travelers to Remain Calm

The Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) announced on Sunday a significant increase in booking cancellations and requests for rescheduling, especially for routes between India and Europe via key Gulf hubs, due to airspace restrictions stemming from the Middle East crisis.

IATO President Ravi Gosain informed PTI that travel agents nationwide are collaborating closely with airlines and international partners to alleviate passenger difficulties by facilitating re-bookings, refunds, and alternative routes.

“Although there is immediate uncertainty, we anticipate that the situation will normalize, and we advise travelers to maintain communication with their agents and refrain from panic cancellations, as airlines are providing viable options in most instances,” he stated.
The ongoing conflict involving Israel, the US, and Iran has led to numerous airspace shutdowns in the Middle East, causing significant disruptions to flight operations.

Also Read: West Asia airspaces closed, Indian airlines cancel around 230 Gulf-bound flights