Durban - The severing of ties by four powerful Gulf countries with Qatar because of its alleged terrorism links could have an impact on South African travellers, who might face route changes, or even cancellations.
The split was announced on Monday as Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) cut diplomatic ties with Qatar, accusing it of supporting terror groups, including the Muslim Brotherhood, and interfering in its internal affairs.
“Qatar’s policy threatens Arab national security and sows the seeds of strife and division within Arab societies,” Al Ahram news quoted an Egyptian Foreign Ministry statement as saying.
The four countries announced they would withdraw their diplomatic staff from Qatar, and also the closure of its airspace and borders severing land, sea and air contact within the next 24 hours.
The Flight Centre Travel Group said in response to The Mercury’s queries that there were likely to be passengers whose flights might be affected by the diplomatic actions of the countries, as well those of airlines which might be making changes to policies or routes.
“(We) recommend all passengers contact their travel consultants and or airlines for updates, however (we are) making every effort to get in touch with customers to advise if their travel may be affected.”
The group would be following the applicable procedures as outlined by the relevant
airlines.
“We will assist customers with the communication received by the relevant airlines. Any updated information will be communicated.”
They said the UAE cruise season started in November, allowing the cruise companies to make all the necessary decisions on how to proceed on this matter.
They said various airlines had issued statements about how the development would affect them.
Etihad Airways said all flights from on Monday evening to and from Doha would be suspended until further notice.
“All customers are being provided with alternative options, including full refunds on unused tickets and free rebooking to the nearest alternate destinations.”
Emirates Airlines issued a similar statement.
“As instructed by the UAE government, Emirates will suspend its flights to and from Doha, starting from Tuesday (this morning).
“The last flight from Dubai to Doha will depart as EK847 at 2.30am (Tuesday).
“The last flight from Doha to Dubai will depart as EK848 at 3.50am (Tuesday).”
Qatar Airways had, according to its website, also suspended all flights to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Egypt.
One Stop Tours in Durban said in response to The Mercury’s queries that travellers booked through these airlines would encounter problems.
“Clients will be forced to cancel their tickets and perhaps re-book on other
carriers.”
They recommended that travellers contact their travel agent or airline.
“The airlines are not committing to refunds in the long term as they are hopeful that the situation may change, so as a result flights may operate normally.”