As the Middle East conflict rapidly escalates, the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) is monitoring impacts on global aviation and Australian travellers in real time.
ATIA is working directly with airlines, DFAT and the Australian Government on behalf of travel businesses across the country. As a result we have current, first-hand knowledge of what is happening and what it means for Australians currently travelling or with upcoming trips.
ATIA Chair Christian Hunter (Perth-based) and CEO Dean Long (Sydney-based) are available throughout the weekend for comment.
Christian and Dean can provide clear, practical advice on what travellers should do and what disruptions may emerge as airlines adjust routes and operations.
Available all weekend for TV, radio and digital interviews. If possible please call after 6am
ATIA’s practical advice for travellers right now:
- Download your airline's app and check the Manage My Booking tab before heading to the airport to make sure your flight is actually going ahead
- Register with Smart Traveller https://www.smartraveller.gov.au
- If you're already in the Middle East and want to get home, register with DFAT now - Middle Eastern carriers are repatriating Australians with no additional charges
- If you’re booked to travel in the next few weeks, don’t Panic-Cancel.
- If you’re booked to travel in the next few months, talk to your accredited travel agent or tour operator as there are plenty of alternative routes
About us:
The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) is the peak body representing Australia’s $69 billion travel industry. ATIA represents the majority of Australian travel agents, corporate agents, tour operators, wholesalers and ITOs.
In 2025, ATIA members booked $13.5 Billion TTV of retail bookings, $11.8 Billion of Corporate Bookings and $5.6 Billion of Land Operations. Typically, at least 70% of all international air sales in Australia are through our members, and over 90% of corporate sales (medium and large businesses), rather than directly through airlines. Whereas with cruises, 73% of travellers use travel advisors to book.
An impressive 92% of ATIA members are small businesses, with women making up 72% of the workforce.
ATIA administers the ATIA Accredited program which is the largest and most representative accreditation scheme for travel businesses in Australia. ATIA represents over 1,120 ATAS members and over 28,000 employees nationwide, directly supporting 16.98 million Australian travellers every year.
Contact details:
FOR INTERVIEWS LJ Loch 0488 038 555 or [email protected]