The UK government has confirmed that passengers whose flights are cancelled due to the US-Israel war on Iran are entitled to certain rights. Hundreds of thousands of travellers have been left stranded after airspace closures across the Gulf, causing the biggest disruption to global air travel since the Covid pandemic.
Under UK law, passengers whose flights are cancelled are entitled to a full refund or re-routing. However, the government has clarified that extraordinary circumstances, such as war, may exempt airlines from paying compensation under UK261 regulations. This means that while refunds and re-routing are guaranteed, additional compensation for inconvenience may not be payable.
For those booked to fly to affected destinations, airlines are obliged to offer alternative travel arrangements or a refund. If you are stranded abroad, your airline must provide care, including meals, refreshments, and accommodation if necessary. The government advises passengers to contact their airline or travel insurer for assistance.
Travel insurance policies may cover cancellation or disruption due to war, but terms vary. Passengers are urged to check their policy details and contact their insurer promptly. The Foreign Office continues to update travel advice for affected regions.
