Will travel insurance cover me if my flights are affected by the war in Iran?
As it stands, the Iran War is not excluded by insurance
As the situation surrounding the Middle East persists, insurance companies are continually reviewing their policies and exclusions conditions. The most important point is that policyholders remain safe, and that risks are accurately represented. Because of the lack of information and unknowable unpredictable nature of the war, many insurer want to provide updates to any policyholders currently travelling or planning to travel.
Courtesy of Allianz insurance, they summarise how travel cover applies in light of the Iran war, as well as providing practical guidance for anyone travelling or planning to travel.
Am I still eligible for compensation if my flight is cancelled?
At this moment in time, the middle east conflict does not meet the policy conditions necessary to trigger Act of War exclusion. Therefore, flight cancellation and travel disruption should still be covered. Claims will be reviewed from the point in time they are made.
This is a changing situation, and insurers will be reviewing Government guidance. Governments are responsible for issuing travel warnings, offering foreign travel advice and directing evacuations where necessary.
Many insurance companies and airlines have an app or portal customers can access, this will include information and alerts.
What to be aware of if you are currently abroad:
If you are in the Middle East, you are likely to experience travel disruption at this time. The airline are responsible for alternative routes to your paid for destination without additional cost – provided that airspace is open.
If policyholders are advised to shelter, such as in their hotels or accommodation – then you should do so. Furthermore if this causes incurred costs, document these costs and they may be deemed non-recoverable costs and will likely be covered by your insurance.
If you would like to shorten your trip, contact your airline provider – they may provide more suitable accommodation. If you cannot return home as planned due to the conflict, your travel insurance cover will be automatically extended at no extra cost until you are able to return.
Evacuations will be directed by government officials – make sure to register your presence on the government website where necessary.
Allianz are keen to press they have a 24 hour call line in case of medical emergencies. This should be done after receiving support and treatment from the authorities. Having all necessary information on hand before the call, such as names, locations, contact details and the policy number will be helpful.
What to be aware of if you are due to travel or planning to travel:
As it stands, and for the foreseeable future – travel to the middle east is not advised. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is warning against all travel to Israel and Palestine. It is also warning against all but essential travel to Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and the UAE.
Be warned: If a policyholder continues with a trip to these destinations, despite having being warned by government advice, they are unlikely to be successful in the event of a claim.
Travellers should look at the government websites, of both arrival and departure countries, to check for any disruption or guidance.
If a trip is cancelled, operators should offer a full refund or an alternative date to rebook. If the holiday provider does not provide this, then contact your insurer.
Cruise bookings and package holidays afford more rights, with Martin Lewis pointing to the travel trade association ABTA’s information.
Current airlines disrupted include:
Emirates – operating on a reduced schedule, affecting connections through Dubai. Rebookings and refunds now available.
Etihad – operating on a reduced schedule though Abu Dhabi. Tickets are available online, and affected buyers will be accommodated. Rebooking is available until 15th May
Qatar Airways – operating on a reduced schedule, available flights listed on their website.
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