Navigating Travel during a Crisis, if you have upcoming international travel, read on

In the shadow of the escalating conflict between the United States and Iran, disruptions to the U.S. travel industry seem to be more commonplace. Here are some things to consider.

1. Outside the United States, fuel and ticket Inflation Exist: The U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports and the Iranian statement that they have mined the Strait of Hormuz have restricted roughly 20% of the world’s energy supply. For the aviation sector, the impact is staggering:

Price Surges: Jet fuel prices change daily, and while the price has doubled in less than two months, in the U.S., jet fuel has increased to $4.24 per gallon in April (May prices could be much more!).

Direct Costs: Major U.S. carriers are currently absorbing billions in unplanned fuel expenses. While these base airfare prices are stable, passengers could see 30% increases in base fares, alongside the new increase seen in baggage and other fees (to help offset costs).

2. Airspace Gridlock: If you are planning or have a flight into the Middle East the traditional “Air bridge” between the West, Asia and the Middle East has resulted in changes for the safety of all involved.

Rerouting: Flights from the U.S. East Coast to India or Southeast Asia must now take extended routes over Africa or the North Pole, adding to increased flight time and fuel.

Hub Disruptions: Regional transit points like Dubai and Doha have seen a reduction in daily traffic, in the beginning many connecting passengers’ flights were delayed, but that has since worked itself out. The key point to remember is the use of those convenient Middle East hubs have been temporary reduced.

3. Safety and “Destination Drift”. There is a psychological toll of the war that effects tourism patterns.

The Substitution Effect: Fear of regional escalation has led travelers to cancel trips to the Middle East and Eastern Europe, flooding “safe” domestic markets. U.S. national parks and coastal resorts are seeing record-breaking crowds, driving up domestic hotel rates by an average of 18%. This also includes an increase in American River Cruising.

Travel Advisories: The State Department maintains Level 4 “Do Not Travel” warnings for areas around Iran. Travelers are strongly encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real-time safety updates as they become available.

The Travel Industry continues to advise travelers to consider the purchase of both Medical and Trip protection policies that specifically covers Trip Delay, Emergency Evacuations, and Trip Cancellations.

Bottom Line: If you have upcoming international travel, expect delays, heightened security screenings, and potential last-minute cancellations. Use a travel professional to find those travel experience deals that continue to pop up and provide you opportunities.

For more travel tips, contact me: patrick.pgstravel@gmail.com or call 503-521-9338.