The Australian government has urged travellers not to panic cancel flights despite major disruptions in the Middle East, as foreign minister Penny Wong cautioned that there are limits to what Canberra can do to assist those stranded. Emirates, Etihad and Qatar Airways have suspended operations, closing key airspace over Qatar, Dubai and Abu Dhabi following US and Israeli attacks on Iran.
Wong said on Monday that about 115,000 Australians are in the region, with 11,000 regularly flying via the affected airlines. She advised against panic cancellations, stating that the fastest way home is the resumption of commercial flights. The government has not yet committed to repatriation flights, noting that airspace closures prevent any flights from operating.
Smartraveller has updated its 'do not travel' advice to include Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Kuwait, Lebanon, Palestine, Qatar, Syria, the UAE and Yemen. Australians are also urged to reconsider travel to Jordan, Oman and Saudi Arabia. Major airlines are offering rebooking or refunds for affected passengers.
Qantas flights remain unaffected as the carrier does not fly into Middle Eastern airports and can reroute via alternative paths to Europe. Virgin Australia, partnered with Qatar Airways, advised passengers to monitor flight information and check Smartraveller updates.
Stranded travellers, including ABC producer Lisa Needham stuck in Dubai for 30 hours, reported difficulties getting information from airlines and consular staff. The UAE embassy urged Australians to shelter in place and follow local authorities' instructions.
