Airlines operating through the Middle East are recovering their schedules and TAANZ is reminding agents of their key role in offering reassurance about travelling through the region.
Airspace re-opened over Qatar after missile strikes early yesterday and most airlines say they are operating normally to all but the worst affected areas as the Iran-Israel ceasefire appears to be holding. Yesterday’s flight cancellations and diversions are still causing disruption as airlines work to clear the backlog of disrupted passengers. Qatar Airways’ Auckland-Doha flight was diverted to Oman on Mon night before continuing to DOH and its flight departed from Auckland yesterday. But due to the absence of an inbound aircraft, today’s flight was cancelled and agents issued with re-booking advice. Emirates’ flights through Dubai continued as scheduled.
. . . Agent’s Role
As consultants from across the brands report a huge spike in calls and e-mails from concerned clients, TAANZ ceo Julie White says consultants need to help travellers cope with uncertainty and ensure they don’t feel panic. “We’ve got to instil confidence. This has happened before, the air space disruption is real but it is manageable,’’ she says. “This is where we go through that emotional roller coaster—travellers need to hold their nerve.’’ What’s been labelled the ‘12-Day War’ was a reminder of the value of an agent, adds White. Consumers who had booked direct were spending hours on the phone trying to contact airlines. “Our members are on the front foot. They have the tools, the training, and the professional networks to resolve issues quickly—often before the client is even aware there’s a problem,” she says. Agents needed to prioritise the most urgent cases, such as those travelling for family events.
. . . Remind Clients
The TAANZ boss urges agents to remind clients on the following:
- Not to panic or cancel travel unnecessarily.
- To monitor official travel advisories.
- To get in contract only if travelling within three days, so urgent needs can be prioritised.
- To ensure they’re covered with comprehensive travel insurance.
“TAANZ-accredited agents aren’t just intermediaries—they’re advocates, connectors and enablers. And they’re doing an incredible job supporting Kiwis through yet another
