Cancelled flights, diverted flights and uncertainty around airspace are now affecting Swedish travellers. This applies not only to trips with a final destination in Dubai, for example – but also long-haul trips with a stopover in the region. Here's what applies and what determines whether you're entitled to a refund.
The deteriorating security situation in the Middle East has had rapid consequences for international air traffic. The region is a global aviation hub, which means that disruptions affect travelers far beyond the conflict zone. Dubai is a popular travel destination among Swedes, but also a common transit point for trips to, for example, Thailand and the Maldives.
“Many are surprised by how quickly it affects travel far beyond the conflict area itself. A stopover in the region is enough for the entire trip to be affected,” says Tiyoneh Jah, PR and communications manager at Ticket.
The crucial thing: Is the flight canceled or not?
Rights are primarily governed by flight status.
Cancelled flight: You are entitled to a full refund or rebooking by the airline.
The flight goes as planned: In this case, the airline's regular rules apply. Concern in itself does not automatically entitle you to a refund. If you cancel your trip when the flight is not canceled, you will usually only receive a refund of taxes and fees, not the full value of the ticket. In the current situation, however, several airlines are offering more generous cancellation and rebooking policies for short-term travel to or via the affected areas.
For trips further in the future, it is therefore advisable to wait, as airlines often update their conditions closer to departure, and premature cancellation may mean that you miss out on the opportunity to receive a full refund if the flight is later cancelled.
Exceptions: Even if the flight is not cancelled, you may be entitled to rebooking or a refund if you added cancellation protection through the travel agency or tour operator where you booked the trip. If you have booked a flight and hotel at the same time, i.e. a package holiday, you also have extended rights under the Package Travel Act (see below).
How the booking form affects your rights
The difference between a package trip and separate bookings is key in this situation.
Package trip (flight + hotel in the same booking): If the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issues a travel advisory to the destination, the traveler has the right to cancel and receive a full refund – even if the flight is not canceled. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs currently advises against travel to Dubai, among other places. For travelers with a package tour there in the coming weeks, this means the possibility of canceling and getting a refund. However, this advisory does not currently apply to trips with a stopover in Dubai, but with a final destination in any other country outside the Middle East.
Separate bookings (flights and hotels separately): In this case, you are not covered by the Package Travel Act. Each part is handled according to the respective supplier's terms and conditions.
Things to keep in mind before your trip
In addition to the flight status itself, there are several factors that can affect your situation:
- Check if the entire journey is on one booking. If you have separate tickets, liability can become more complicated if a connection is cancelled.
- If your trip is further in the future, it is wise to follow developments. Airlines often update their conditions closer to departure.
- Review your insurance coverage, including travel insurance through home insurance or credit card.
- Ensure that your passport meets validity requirements and that you comply with any transit regulations if you are rebooked via another country.
- Check that the airline has the correct contact details so that you receive information about changes via text message or email.
For those of you who are already there
Travelers whose return trip is canceled should first contact the airline or tour operator. If airspace is closed, rebooking may take a while until traffic resumes.
Important things to do on site:
- Follow official information from airlines and local authorities.
- Check the flight status before traveling to the airport.
- Save all receipts for additional expenses such as hotels, food, and transportation.
- Find out if the airline offers hotel or meal vouchers.
- Check whether home insurance or credit card insurance can cover additional costs.
- Have access to booking numbers and digital tickets offline if your internet connection becomes limited.
Swedish citizens are also encouraged to register via the Swedish List at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to receive current information and be able to be contacted if necessary.
Source: Ticket
