Story perspectives

Middle East Conflict Disrupts Global Travel, Raises Prices

3/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

The escalating conflict in the Middle East disrupts travel, especially Asia-to-Europe routes.
Emirates and Qatar Airways have canceled flights, driving a scramble for seats and higher prices.
Professor Ron Bartsch from Avlaw Consulting warns Australia may face severe impacts due to reliance on Middle Eastern hubs.
Qantas maintains some routes by flying over Turkmenistan and Afghanistan, while the Australian government faces criticism for its slow crisis response.

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Story summary

The escalating conflict in the Middle East disrupts travel, especially Asia-to-Europe routes.
Emirates and Qatar Airways have canceled flights, driving a scramble for seats and higher prices.
Professor Ron Bartsch from Avlaw Consulting warns Australia may face severe impacts due to reliance on Middle Eastern hubs.
Qantas maintains some routes by flying over Turkmenistan and Afghanistan, while the Australian government faces criticism for its slow crisis response.