Australians are increasingly opting for cheaper airfares routed through the Middle East, even as the federal government warns of escalating conflict, airspace closures and the risk of missile strikes. With the war in its second month, the region one of the world’s busiest aviation corridors has been thrown into chaos, forcing thousands of global flight cancellations.
Middle Eastern carriers have responded by slashing fares, offering return flights from Sydney to London for as little as $1,400 next month. In stark contrast, several Asian and American airlines are charging more than three times that amount for the same travel period. The price gap is proving irresistible for many travellers.
“At these price points, people are taking the plunge,” said Dean Long, CEO of the Australian Travel Industry Association. “They’re looking at the fares, the service these airlines provide, and deciding it’s worth the risk.”
Long said both Emirates and Qatar Airways are preparing to add more discounted flights in the coming weeks. Before the conflict, around 153 flights per week operated between Australia and the Middle East. That number is expected to climb back to 70–80 flights per week, though still far below pre‑war levels.
“The Middle East will likely remain cheaper than other routes for some time, simply because people are nervous and demand hasn’t fully returned,” Long added.
Despite heightened tensions and shaken traveller confidence, many Australians are sticking with long‑booked itineraries. “Planes heading to the Middle East aren’t 100 per cent full, but they’re very well patronised over 80 per cent at the moment,” he said.
As the conflict continues to reshape global aviation, the divide between cost and safety is becoming increasingly stark and many Australians are choosing savings over caution.
+ There are no comments
Add yours