Pata reports ‘positive signs’ despite fare rises amid Middle East conflict

Japan, Thailand and Vietnam have seen rising levels of interest amid the Middle East conflict – but other destinations such as the Maldives and Mauritius are seeing falling demand, research shows.

 

The findings come from a survey of agents by the Pacific Asia Travel Association UK & Ireland which said there are “positive signs” for its sector.

 

Commercial flights to hubs in the Gulf have resumed, offering travellers the option to fly via airports in the region and connect onto services for Pacific Asia destinations.

 

However, the UK Foreign Office still advises against all but essential travel to United Arab Emirates – so travel insurance could be invalidated if holidaymakers travel against its advice.

 

More: Record UK air passengers confirmed in first quarter despite Middle East conflict

 

Heathrow April passenger numbers drop due to Middle East conflict

 

Chris Crampton, Pata UK & Ireland chair, said: “Many Pacific Asia and Australasia destinations rely on the Middle East as a key travel gateway, so we wanted to understand what impact the conflict is having on enquiries and bookings, and which destinations are either suffering or seeing increased demand.”

 

The Pata survey, in which 85 agents responded, showed Japan emerging as the strongest performer, as 43% reported a spike in interest for the destination.

 

Thailand also stood out as a strong contender for 39% of respondents, while Singapore and Vietnam each saw increased demand from 32%.

 

When asked what impact agents are seeing on flights, 94% said ‘an increase in prices’, 57% noted ‘reduced availability’ and 37% said the situation is causing route changes and longer journey times.

 

Michelle Pollock, of Constance Hotels & Resorts, commented: “Many clients won’t entertain travelling via the Middle East, whilst some are still willing and wanting to travel to or via the region.

 

“Direct carriers such as British Airways and Air Mauritius have unfortunately dampened the demand for Maldives and Mauritius, due to high pricing at £2,500-£3,500 per person in economy.

 

“At times like this we should all work together as an industry to keep consumers travelling to our destinations.”

 

Just over half (55%) of respondents noted the Maldives has seen a significant decrease in demand.

 

However, almost a third (31%) said Australia, India and Malaysia have seen positive gains while Sri Lanka and New Zealand have been cited as increasingly popular by 18%.

 

Meanwhile, 59% noted a boom in European bookings, 54% an increase in the Caribbean and 31% the US.

 

Some agents report a more difficult time but remain positive, noted Pata.

 

“Demand has gone very quiet for all destinations. We expect demand to bounce back with last-minute requests,” said Pascal August, Move Mountains Travel director.

 

Overall, Pata said the survey paints a “positive picture” for Pacific Asia, confirming that the UK market is still “keen to travel” and opting for “established, well-connected destinations” within the region.