Simon Calder's Independent Travel Podcast June 17th - How could Middle East conflict affect your holiday flight?
Jun 17, 2025
Escalating tensions in the Middle East are causing significant airspace closures, which are forcing airlines to reroute flights and increasing travel times. Travelers may face extended delays, especially on connecting flights from the UK. The discussion also touches on how geopolitical situations, like new restrictions over Russia, are impacting flights to popular destinations such as Greece and Turkey. Understanding your rights as a traveler during these disruptions is a key focus, ensuring you stay informed and prepared.
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Middle East Airspace Closure Impact
- The Middle East conflict has closed airspace over Iran, Iraq, and Syria, forcing airlines to reroute flights around these zones.
- This causes longer flight times, increased fuel costs, and potential delays on key international routes.
Tight Connections at Risk
- The morning Emirates flight from Manchester to Dubai connects to Singapore with just one hour between arrivals and departures.
- Small delays due to rerouting put these tight connections at serious risk of missed flights.
Tony Wheeler's Flight Delay Example
- Tony Wheeler, co-founder of Lonely Planet, faced increased layover times from one hour to three when flying London-Delhi-Kathmandu.
- Flight rerouting due to closed airspace lengthened his connection times significantly.