Israel-Gaza Conflict Deters Travel Bookings, Middle East Airlines Report
Ongoing clashes between Israel and Gaza have disrupted more than just regional stability. Major Middle Eastern airlines are now citing the conflict’s detrimental impacts on travel and tourism.
Executives from over a dozen carriers gathered last week for the Arab Air Carriers Organization’s 56th annual meeting in Saudi Arabia. Amid discussions on pandemic recovery and sustainability, the recent Israel-Gaza violence emerged as another hurdle facing the industry.
Though the attacks were concentrated along the Gaza border, airlines say demand is dropping across the region. Officials reported empty flights and a spike in booking cancelations or changes.
The volatility and violence gives travelers cause to reconsider Middle East plans. Some airlines even halted service to Tel Aviv for safety amid the rocket barrage.
Just as air travel activity started to improve, the conflict deals a setback. According to IATA data, Middle East airline revenue jumped 94% in March after the Omicron slump. But executives worry these gains could be undermined by the political unrest.
Moving forward, Arab air carriers urged all parties to restore calm and guarantee passengers’ safety. Lasting peace would allow tourism, trade, and travel to thrive once again following pandemic hardships.
With current truces tentative, airlines brace for lingering repercussions. But they remain hopeful that diplomacy and de-escalation can take flight.
