Crisis archive

Iberia Strike Action- Added 24th April- Updated 30th April

 

We have been made aware that the SEPLA pilots union is calling off the intermittent Iberia strike action.

Iberia are rescheduling flights for 4 and 7 May, however those travelling on 30 April will not be rescheduled due to short notice.

Iberia have a statement on their website, which can be accessed here: http://www.iberia.com/gb/

British Airways update below:

Following the announcement by the SEPLA pilots union that it is calling off its months-long intermittent strike at IBERIA, the Spanish airline is rescheduling flights that had been cancelled on 4th and 7th May.      

Passengers holding tickets for most of these flights may use them in accordance with their original reservations.                                                                                                    

However  the  30th  April  flights that were cancelled due to the strike could not be rescheduled on such short notice, and passengers should use the options outlined below for cancelled services.                                                                                                

For passengers who were booked on a flight which was cancelled on either 04May or 7th  May  they  may  rebook  to travel on the original flight subject to availability in the same cabin.                                                                                                          

British  Airways  flights  to  and from Spain are expected to operate as normal  as  are  flights  operated  by  Air  Nostrum, Iberia Express and
code-shares operated by other partner airlines.

STA Travel are working to proactively contact any affected passengers.

Anyone with concerns about travel with Iberia should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

 

Fiji Tropical Storm- Added 31st March - Updated 3rd April- Current 5th April

 

The Foreign Office continue to update their travel advice for Fiji. Please see an extract of the advice below:

The tropical cyclone season in Fiji normally runs from November to April.  A tropical depression is currently affecting the Fiji group, causing severe flooding in the western division. A State of Natural Disaster was declared for parts of the western division of Viti Levu with effect from Friday 30 March and a tropical cyclone alert was issued on 2 April.

Nadi international airport is fully operational, with all international flights arriving and departing.

Travellers are strongly advised to monitor the latest weather bulletins on the Fiji Meteorological Service website.

Anyone with concerns about travel in Fiji or disruptions to their travel itinerary should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For general queries, please contact our Customer Services Team.

 

Malev Hungarian Airlines Cease Operations- Added 3rd February

 

The Hungarian national airline Malev has folded after its financial situation became unsustainable.

"At 0500 GMT... after 66 years of almost continuous operation Malev will no longer take off," it said.

It came after the European Commission ordered Malev to repay various forms of state aid received from 2007 to 2010.

STA Travel are working to locate and contact any affected passengers.

Anyone with concerns about travel with this airline should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For any general queries, please contact our Customer Service Team.

STA Travel are monitoring this situation and any updates will be added to this Travel Advice Page.

 

Maldives Civil Unrest- Added 8th February - Updated 12th March- Current 15th March         

The Foreign Office have updated the travel advice for the Maldives in relation to the demonstrations in Malé. The overall level of the advice has changed; there are no travel restrictions in the travel advice for Maldives.The relevant extracts of the advice are below for your reference:

Safety and Security - Demonstrations

There have been political demonstrations in Malé since the middle of January which escalated on 6 February, leading to clashes between the government and opposition supporters and later between the police and defence forces.  Whilst some unrest was reported to have taken place on a number of non-resort islands away from the areas tourists normally frequent, there were no reports of disturbances at tourist resorts. Whilst there are ongoing political discussions, further demonstrations are likely and you should exercise caution, avoid large gatherings and beware of spontaneous demonstrations.

Anyone with concerns about travel in the Maldives should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For any general queries, please contact our Customer Service Team.

STA Travel are monitoring this situation and any updates will be added to this Travel Advice Page.

Iberia Strike Action- Added 5th March- Updated 15th March

 

Iberia have announced the planned strikes by members of the Sepla and Stavla flight crew unions have been cancelled. Please see a statement from Iberia below:

Iberia regards the cancellation of the new intermittent strike planned to begin on March 16 by the SEPLA pilots union and the STAVLA cabin crew union as good news for customers, the airline, and the Spanish holiday industry and economy, particularly since the strikes would have caused disruptions in the busy Easter holiday period.
 
The airline hopes that SEPLA will resume negotiations of the new collective bargaining agreement in good faith and with the attention to reach an agreement at a time when it’s necessary to reduce costs to be competitive. The company is happy that its longstanding proposal that an independent arbiter be named to preside over the contract negotiations has now been accepted.
 
Iberia is now rescheduling the flights it had cancelled, and will attempt to re-assign customers to the flights they had initially booked for March 16 and 19. Customers with tickets for later flights are unaffected, since no flights had yet been cancelled for the additional strike days which have now been called off.
 
Once again, Iberia would like to thank its customers for their patience and understanding during a difficult period, and also its employees for their extra efforts to assist customers. Iberia is now taking all possible steps to regain the trust of customers who have distanced themselves because of the SEPLA strike.

Further information regarding the strikes can be found on the Iberia Website.

Anyone with concerns about travel with Iberia should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For any general queries, please contact our Customer Service Team.

STA Travel are monitoring this situation and any updates will be added to this Travel Advice Page.

 

Australia Floods- Added 12th March- Current 15th March

 

Some of Australia’s regional areas are currently experiencing flooding as a result of the current ‘La Niña’ effect moving across the Australian main land. The main affected flood areas are regional and farm areas, no tourist destinations have been affected at this time. Sydney also experienced some minor flooding earlier today due to torrential rain, which caused the closure of some roads and the disruption of flights and ferries. The weather is forecasted to clear in Sydney and the weekend is expected to be sunny.

The situation is continually changing and it is impossible to predict if there will be further flooding.

Anyone with concerns about travel in Australia should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For any general queries, please contact our Customer Service Team.

STA Travel are monitoring this situation and any updates will be added to this Travel Advice page.

Iberia Strike Action- Added 14th February- Current 28th February

 

The Foreign Office have updated their travel advice for Spain in relation to an Iberia Pilot Strike. Please see an extract of the advise below:

A series of strikes have been called by the Iberia pilots’ union SEPLA for 24th and 29th of February. The strikes will cause the cancellation of a large number of Iberia flights. Travellers are recommended to contact their travel agent for further details or check the latest information on the Iberia website.

Further information regarding cancelled flights can be found on the Iberia Website.

Passengers are advised to check their flight status before travelling to the airport.

STA Travel are working to contact any affected passengers.

Anyone with concerns about travel with Iberia should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For any general queries, please contact our Customer Service Team.

STA Travel are monitoring this situation and any updates will be added to this Travel Advice Page.

 

Fiji Adverse Weather- Added 25th January - Current 11th January

 

The Foreign Office have updated their advice for Fiji in relation to flooding. Please see an extract of the advice below:

The tropical cyclone season in Fiji normally runs from November to April. Throughout this period there is a high risk of strong winds and heavy rains with associated flooding, landslides and road closures. Travellers are strongly advised to monitor the latest weather bulletins on the Fiji Meteorological Service website, in local newspapers and on Radio Fiji 2 on 105 FM. 

Anyone with concerns about travel in Fiji should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For any general queries, please contact our Customer Service Team.

STA Travel are monitoring this situation and any updates will be added to this Travel Advice Page.

 

UK Adverse Weather- Added 4th February 2012- Updated 6th February 2012

 

On Sunday the 5th February 2012, BAA and airlines agreed to reduce their flight schedule out of London Heathrow to minimise disruption caused by the forecasted adverse weather conditions.

The major disruption is now over, however there may still be some cancellations.

Please see a statement from Heathrow below:

Heathrow is open and our usual flight schedule is operating today. There will, however, be a handful of cancellations as result of yesterday’s disruption. Please check your flight before travelling to the airport. 

Customers are advised to check their flight status on their airline 's website, or on http://www.heathrow.com/ .

Anyone with concerns about travel from Heathrow should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For any general queries, please contact our Customer Service Team.

STA Travel are monitoring this situation and any updates will be added to this Travel Advice Page.

Spanair Cease Operations- Added 30th January 2012

 

Due to financial collapse, the Spanish airline Spanair have suspended operations. As of the 28th January 2012 all flights have been cancelled.

STA Travel are in the process of locating and assisting any affected passengers.

Anyone with concerns about travel with this airline should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For any general queries, please contact our Customer Service Team.

STA Travel are monitoring this situation and any updates will be added to this Travel Advice Page.

 

Thailand Update - Added 13th January- Current 19th January 
 

The Foreign Office have updated their travel advice for Thailand in relation to a potential terrorist threat in Bangkok. The overall level of the advice has not changed and they currently advise against all travel to the Preah Vihear and Ta Krabey/Ta Moan temple areas on the Thailand/Cambodia border and against all but essential travel to the provinces of Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat and Songkhla.

 

Please see an extract from the advice below:

The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs has responded to media enquiries about a possible terrorist threat in Bangkok, following a warning issued by the US government to its citizens. On 13 January they said:

“The Thai Government is also aware about such a possible threat and that the authorities concerned have been in close co-ordination with each other as well as with relevant countries.  In this regard, security measures have been increased as a precaution to prevent any incident that may occur. The authorities will continue to remain vigilant and monitor the situation closely. We therefore advise visitors to exercise vigilance and keep abreast of local security advice and media reports ”   

 

Anyone with concerns about travel in this area should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For general queries, please contact our Customer Services Team.

Indonesia Earthquake- Added 11th January

 

A powerful earthquake struck off the coast of Indonesia’s Aceh province on the 10th January, measuring 7.1 Magnitude. A Tsuanmi warning was briefly issued for Banda Aceh Province, but has since been removed.

Please see below an extract from the Foreign Office advice for Indonesia:

A 7.3 magnitude earthquake has occurred off the west coast of northern Sumatra.  The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre has said that a destructive widespread tsunami threat does not exist. 

STA Travel are mointoring this situation and any updates will be added to this travel advice page.

Anyone with concerns about travel in this area should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For general queries, please contact our Customer Services Team.

Iberia Strike Action- Added 4th January

 

Iberia pilots are planning further industrial action for Monday 9 January and Wednesday 11 January which may disrupt services operated by Iberia Airlines.

Iberia have posted the following statement on their website:

To minimize the negative impact of the strike, we are putting all our resources into attending you at all times and are working to offer alternative transport to your destination as soon as possible

The strike called by the Iberia section of the Spanish pilots' union SEPLA for 9 and 11 January will cause the suspension and delay of many of our flights, with a subsequent repercussion on the whole of our network.

For a list of affected flights view the Iberia website by clicking here.

STA Travel are working to contact any affected passengers.

Anyone with concerns about  travel with Iberia should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For general queries, please contact our Customer Services Team.

New Zealand Earthquake 23rd December

Two earthquakes with a 5.8 magnitude have struck New Zealand this morning, 15 km ENE of Christchurch, 218 km SSE of West of portand 291 km SSW of Wellington at a depth of 4.9 km.

Medium to strong shaking was felt in Christchurch. One person is reported to have been hurt but there were no immediate reports of large-scale damage

The airport was closed but an official told local media it was expected to reopen later in the day after checks.

You can keep up to date by moitoring the Foreign and Commonwealth office here

If you are concerned about your immediate travel plans please contact your booking branch here.

Libya Travel Update - Current 21st December                     

The FCO have updated their travel advice for Libya. Please see an extract from the advice below:

Since 3 March, we have advised against all travel to Libya. However in the light of the improving security situation on the ground the FCO has decided to change our Travel Advice to advise against all but essential travel to Zuwara, Az Zawiya, Tripoli, al Khums, Zlitan and Misrata, and the coastal towns from Ras Lanuf to the Egyptian Border, including Benghazi.  We still advise against all travel to all other areas of Libya.

Our Travel Advice is kept under constant review and the safety of British Nationals remains our priority. Any British national thinking of travelling to Libya should take care and check our Travel Advice regularly. It is also important to note that the UK Mission in Tripoli is only able to provide very limited consular assistance at present, but we do plan to deploy additional  staff when the situation allows. Tripoli International Airport is closed and the No Fly Zone remains in place.

Anyone with concerns about  travel in Libya should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

Travel Advice for Yemen- Current 21st December

In light of the increasing violence in Yemen, the Foreign Office have updated their advice and now advise against all travel to Yemen. Please see an extract of the advice below:

We advise against all travel to Yemen and strongly urge British nationals to leave now by commercial means. The political situation is volatile, with a high possibility of violent demonstrations on Friday 1 April. A rapid deterioration in the security situation is possible if negotiations between the President and the opposition breakdown.  Routes in and out of Sana’a and the other major cities may be blocked and airports closed or inaccessible.

Our current ability to provide consular assistance is limited.  If you do not leave the country now, whilst commercial carriers are still flying, it is highly unlikely that the British government will be able to evacuate you or provide consular assistance, in the event of a further deterioration of the security situation.  You should therefore plan accordingly.

Anyone with concerns about travel in Yemen should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

Border Agency Strike Action on 30th November- Updated 1st December

Following 24 hour strike by Border Agency staff across the United Kingdom on Wednesday, 30th November, it would appear that the strike action did not cause the anticipated disruption even during peak times. 

All airports are now operating normally.

Passengers are advised to check airline websites for up to date flight time information.

STA Travel continue to monitor this situation and any updates will be added to this Travel Advice page.

Thailand Floods -  Updated 14th November - Current 25th November

The Foreign Office have updated the travel advice for Thailand in relation to flooding in Bangkok. The overall level of the advice has changed.

We no longer advise against all but essential travel to the 22 provinces in Thailand (including Bangkok) identified by the Thai authorities as affected by flooding.

Heavy rainfall across Thailand in September and October has caused widespread flooding resulting in disruption and over 530 deaths.  We advise caution if travelling to any of the 22 provinces in Thailand (including Bangkok), which are affected by flooding, as identified by the Thai authorities. The affected provinces are: North; (Nakhon Sawan and Uthai Thani) Central; (Chai Nat, Sing Buri, Ang Thong, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Lopburi, Saraburi, Suphan Buri, Nakhon Pathom, Pathumthani, Nonthaburi, Samutsakhon, Samut Prakarn and Bangkok) Northeast; (Ubon Ratchathani, Srisaket, Roi-et and Kalasin) Eastern; (Chacheongsao, Nakhon Nayok and Prachinburi).

There is still a large volume of flood water from the north passing through Bangkok, and to the east and west of the city, to reach the Gulf of Thailand. This flood water is being contained by a series of barriers, dykes and canals and has flooded outlying districts to the north (including Chatuchak ), east and west of central Bangkok. Some of the flood defences have been breached and the authorities have put in place measures to deal with these breaches. We now assess that the risk of floods affecting central Bangkok is reducing, though a small risk remains that some of the floodwater affecting the suburbs to the north, east and west of Bangkok could spread slowly towards the centre of the city. This risk will diminish as more floodwater drains into the sea.

Anyone with concerns about travel in Thailand should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For general queries please contact our Customer Services Team.

Bermuda- Hurricane Sean- Updated 14th November

Sean is now a post-tropical cyclone and has merged with a cold front...this is the last advisory.

STA Travel are monitoring this situation and any updates will be added to this Travel Advice page.

Anyone with concerns about travel in this area should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For general queries, please contact our Customer Services Team.

Turkey Earthquake- Added 10th November

 

A 5.6-magnitude earthquake has struck eastern Turkey, killing at least seven people.

Twenty-five buildings have collapsed, including a six-storey hotel in the city of Van, where journalists and aid workers were staying, officials said.

Emergency workers said 23 people had been rescued alive but that up to 100 more remained unaccounted for.

Last month, a 7.2-magnitude quake in the same area killed 600 people.

There have been hundreds of aftershocks since that disaster and thousands of people are still camping out in tents in freezing conditions in the area.

Anyone with concerns about travel in this area should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For general queries, please contact our Customer Services Team.

Grounding of Qantas Fleet - Current 4th November

 

Qantas can confirm that all domestic and international flights are all operating as scheduled and customers should travel to the airport to check in as normal.

For up to the minute information on specific flights, please check the Flight Status page.

Anyone with concerns about travel with Qantas should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For general queries please contact our Customer Services Team.

Hurricane Rina- Added 25th October - Updated 30th October

 

Rina has downgraded to a post tropical cyclone and is currently located about 75 miles of the western tip of Cuba and about 110 miles north east of Cozumel,Mexico.

Maximum sustained winds have decreased to near 30mph with higher gusts.  Continued weakening is expected during the next 48 hours therefore this will be the final update on Rina.

Anyone with concerns about travel in this are should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For general queries please contact our Customer Services Team.

STA Travel are monitoring this situation and any updates will be added to this Travel Advice Page.

Turkey Earthquake- Added 24th October - Current 28th October

 

An earthquake of 7.3 Magnitude struck Turkey's Eastern Van Region on Sunday.

More than 500 people died and 1,000 were injured in the 7.2 magnitude quake, many of them in the town of Ercis, where dozens of buildings fell.

G Adventures Update

There are no G Adventures groups currently visiting this region of the country. No G Adventures staff or clients currently in Turkey are affected by this event.

STA Travel are closely monitoring this situation and any updates will be added to this Travel Advice page.

Anyone with concerns about travel in Turkey should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For general queries please contact our Customer Services Team.

Trinidad and Tobago State of Emergency- Current 31st October 

 

On 21 August 2011, a Limited State of Emergency was called into effect by the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago. On 4 September, the Prime Minister announced an extension of the State of Emergency for up to three months.

There is now a curfew in place for designated "hotspots" in Trinidad from 23:00 to 04:00 local time. Although the State of Emergency extends to Tobago, the island has no designated "hotspots" and is not affected by the curfew.

The Foreign Office strongly advise travellers to respect the curfew in the affected areas and to comply with directives issued by the Government of the Republic of Trinidad & Tobago, military and police units.

For further information please see the Foreign Office Website. 

Any customers who are concerned about travel in Trinidad and Tobago should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

Customers already outside the UK who wish to enquire about amending their booking should contact our Global Travel Help Team by Clicking Here.

 

For general queries please contact our Customer Services team.

Bali Earthquake- Added 13th October - Current 17th October

 

A strong earthquake has shaken the Indonesian island of Bali, injuring dozens of people and sending debris crashing into the streets.

The 6.1-magnitude earthquake struck before midday, with its epicentre about 100km (62 miles) to the south-west of Denpasar, Bali's capital.

It was felt across the island and as far away as Java and Lombok.

Reports said about 50 people were injured, mostly with cuts and broken bones caused by falling debris.

In the tourist resort of Kuta, hundreds of people ran into the streets as the earth shook for several minutes.

We are monitoring this situation closely, and any updates will be added to this Travel Advice Page.

Anyone with concerns about travel in Bali should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For general queries please contact our Customer Services Team.

 

Bermuda Hurricane Ophelia- Added 3rd October- Updated 4th October

 

Ophelia has weakened to a tropical storm as she heads towards the Avalon peninsula of Newfoundland. 

Maximum sustained winds has decreased to near 70 mph with higher gusts. Additional weakening is forecast and Ophelia is expected to become a post-tropical cyclone later today.

Anyone with concerns about travel in this area should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For general queries please contact our Customer Services Team.

 Earthquake in Nepal- Added 19th September- Updated 20th September

 

A 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck Nepal on Sunday 18 September 2011. There have been a small number of fatalities, including in Kathmandu.

The Foreign Office are advising British nationals who require assistance to contact the Consular Section of the British Embassy in Kathmandu: 00977 1 4410583.

Gap Adventues have advised that no GAP Adventures tours are currently travelling in the affected area.

STA Travel are monitoring this situation and any updates will be added to this Travel Advice Page.

Anyone with concerns about travel in this area should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For general queries please contact our Customer Service Team.

 Air Canada Strike Action- Updated 21st September

 

Air Canada today announced that it has reached a tentative collective agreement with the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), representing the airline’s approximately 6,800 flight attendants. Air Canada have advised that their schedules have now returned to normal:

• Air Canada mainline flights unaffected
• Air Canada Express service to Toronto Island unaffected
• Air Canada Express operated by Jazz returns to regular schedule Thursday September 22 

 

STA Travel are monitoring this situation and any updates will be added to this Travel Advice Page.

Qantas Strike Action- Added 20th September

 

Qantas have advised that industrial strike action will take place on the 20th of September.

More than 4000 Qantas baggage handlers and ground staff will stop work for four hours as part of an ongoing row with Qantas over pay and conditions. Please see a statement from Qantas below:

Qantas successfully minimises the impact of industrial action

Despite the delays and cancellations we were forced to put in place this morning due to the industrial action taken by the Transport Workers Union, disruption to our customers was minimal.

Nearly 80% of our domestic flights departed within 15 minutes of their scheduled departure time during the strike. More than 14,200 customers were able to get to their destinations as planned.

• View full list of flights affected on 20 September

You can also visit Flight Status for the latest information on your flight.

Qantas international services continue to operate normally and none of our QantasLink or Jetstar services were affected by the action.

TWU withdraw work bans

The TWU have withdrawn the work bans they had imposed on our staff over the next 48 hours and we hope this signals their desire to return to the negotiating table.

Thank you for your patience and your continued support of Qantas today and we remain committed to making sure you enjoy your journey with us.

STA Travel are monitoring this situation and any updates will be added to this Travel Advice Page.

Hurricane Maria- Added 16th September

 

Hurricane Maria, a Category One hurricane is currently located 35.2 north and 65.6 west approximately 205 miles north-north west of Bermuda. 

She has maximum sustained winds of 75 miles per hour and is moving in a north-northeasterly direction at approximately 36 miles per hour. This motion is expected to continue tonight with a turn to the northeast at an even faster forward speed expected on Friday. 

On the current forecast, the center of Hurricane Maria will pass near or over the Avalon Peninsula on Friday.  Some additional strengthening is possible overnight before weakening is likely to begin later on Friday.

Rainfall amounts of 1 to 3 inches can be expected across southeastern Newfoundland associated as a result of Hurricane Maria.

Watches and warnings in effect:

Environment Canada has issued a hurricane watch for the Avalon Peninsula of Newfoundland from Arnolds Cove to Brigus South and a Tropical storm warning for the entire Avalon Peninsula from Arnolds Cove to Jones Harbor.

The hurricane watch may be increased to a hurricane warning for a portion of Avalon Peninsula this evening.

Anyone with concerns about travel in this area should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For general queries please contact our Customer Service Team.

STA Travel are monitoring this situation and any updates will be added to this Travel Advice page.

Buenos Aires Bus and Train Crash- Added 13th September
 

At least seven people have died in the collision of a bus and two trains in the Argentine capital, Buenos Aires.

Reports say that at least 160 people were injured, seven seriously.

The crash happened during the morning rush hour as hundreds of commuters were waiting at the station in Flores, a Buenos Aires suburb.

Police said that one train hit the bus that was going through a level crossing near the station, dragging it along the lines and into a second train.

The accident happened at about 07:00 local time (10:00 GMT) on the Sarmiento line, which connects the centre of Buenos Aires with the western suburbs.

STA Travel are actively monitoring this situation and any updates will be added to this Travel Advice Page.

Anyone with concerns about travel in Argentina should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For general queries, please contact our Customer Services Team.

Zanzibar Ferry Disaster- Added 12th September

The Foreign Office have updated their Travel Advice for Tanzania in relation to a ferry disaster on the 10th September 2011.

The MV Spice, from Zanzibar to Pemba sank on 10 September 2011.  There are reports that almost 200 people were killed with numerous casualties.

GAP Adventures have advised that:

The accident occurred on a route that Gap Adventures does not include on any of its tours. There were no Gap Adventures passengers aboard, and all of our groups in Tanzania remain safe.

STA Travel are monitoring this situation and any updates will be added to this Travel Advice Page.

Anyone with concerns about  travel in this area should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For general queries, please contact our Customer Services Team.

Mexico- Tropical Storm Nate- Added 9th September- Updated 12th September

 

The Foreign Office have updated their travel advice for Mexico in relation to Tropical Storm Nate. The overall level of the advice has not changed; the FCO advise against all but essential travel to Ciudad Juarez.

Tropical Storm Nate is now a Post Tropical Cycline, and is a remnant low.

The US National Hurricane Centre will not send any further advisory messages about Nate.

STA Travel are monitoring this situation and any updates will be added to this travel advice page.

Anyone with concerns about travel in this area should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For general queries please contact our Customer Service Team.

India - Delhi Bomb - Added 7th September
 
Following a bomb at the Delhi High Court on 7 September there are reports of nine fatalities and over 45 injured.  We have no indication at present of any British nationals involved.  British nationals are advised to monitor local media and be more vigilant around government buildings and public places.

Texas Wildfires - Added 7th September

 

Wildfires continue to burn in Rural Texas. The largest of the fires in Rural Bastrop county is burning out of control for a third day. Winds have dropped considerably and are expected to remain this way for a short time. We would advise all travellers to avoid the area at present

Hurricane Katia- Added 5th September- Updated 9th September

 

Hurricane Katia is currently located about 575 miles North West of Bermuda and is accelerating northeastward over the north Atlantic. Maximum sustained winds decreased to near 85 mph with higher gusts.

Large swells generated by Katia are expected to affect most of the east coast of the United States and Bermuda. These swells are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions. Swells affecting the northern leeward islands should continue to subside today.

Anyone with concerns about  travel in this area should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For general queries, please contact our Customer Services Team.

Japan- Typhoon Talas - Updated 8th September 
 

Rescue workers continued their struggle on Wednesday to reach hundreds of people who remain cut off five days after a powerful typhoon wreaked havoc on the Kii Peninsula in western Japan, with the death toll rising to 54 and restoration of water and power supplies still a priority.

The death toll from Typhoon Talas, the worst storm to hit Japan since 2004, continues to rise, while 55 remain missing, according to a Kyodo News tally based on announcements by local governments.

Meanwhile, another tropical cyclone, Typhoon Kulap, was observed Wednesday traveling slowly northward off the south of Japan in the Pacific, packing winds of up to 90 kilometers per hour, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency.

Any customers who are concerned about travel in this area should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For general queries please contact our Customer Services team.

China- Typhoon Muifa- Updated 9th August

 

The Foreign Office have updated their travel advice for China in relation to Tropical Storm Muifa, which is expected to cause disruption to southern and eastern coastal regions of China.

The overall level of the advice has not changed; there are no travel restrictions in place in the travel advice for China. 

The full force of Muifa, downgraded from a typhoon, missed Shanghai, but power to at least two residential areas was briefly lost.

Heavy rain was also expected in western areas of North Korea, reports said.

The storm also downed trees and electricity poles in South Korea, leaving thousands of homes without power.

Many domestic flights between Seoul and the island of Jeju have been cancelled.

In addition to evacuating residents and calling ships back to harbour, the authorities cancelled more than 200 flights and closed two bridges to outlying islands.

Train and bus services were thrown into disarray.

Anyone with concerns about travel in China should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For general queries, please contact our Customer Service Team.

Attacks in Norway- Added 22nd July- Current 29th July

 

The Foreign Office have updated their travel advice for Norway. The overall level of advice has not changed. There are no travel restrictions in place for Norway. Please see an extract of the advice below:

On the afternoon of 22 July there was an explosion in the centre of Oslo resulting in a number of casualties and causing extensive damage to the area. This was followed by a further attack at a youth camp on Utoya Island, 40km west of Oslo, which has resulted in a large loss of life. Norwegian Police have requested that, where possible, people stay away from the centre of Oslo. British nationals are advised to exercise caution, monitor local media reporting and follow advice given by the emergency services.

An exclusion cordon continues to be in effect around the Government district in Oslo (affecting the Prime Minister's Office, Ministry of Petroleum and Ministry of Finance) and there is a heightened level of security across the city.  Currently public transport is operating normally except through the Government district.

There is a high threat from terrorism.

STA Travel are currently monitoring this situation and any updates will be added to this Travel Advice page.

Anyone concerned about travel in Norway should contact their Booking Branch for advice.
 
For general queries, please contact our Customer Services team.

Philippines Tropical Storm- Added 27th July- Current 28th July

The Foreign Office have updated their travel advice for Philippines in relation to Tropical Storm Nock-Ten.

Tropical storm Nock-Ten is bringing strong winds, heavy rain and flooding to northern and eastern parts of the Philippines. Local authorities are evacuating people in some areas and advising them to take precautions against possible flash floods and landslides. Coastal areas may be at risk of big waves and local flooding due to storm surges. Transport, including flights, may be disrupted. 

The overall level of advice for the Philippines has not changed. They advise against all travel to specific areas of the Philippines and against all but essential travel to other specific areas of the Philippines.

Anyone with concerns about travel in the Philippines should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For general queries, please contact our Customer Service Team.

Chile Volcano- Current 22nd July

 
A chain of volcanoes erupted in southern Chile (Puyehue and the Los Lagos region), about 500 miles south of Santiago, on 4 June. The volcanoes continue to be active and the ash  is now seriously disrupting internal air travel in southern Chile.

Anyone concerned about travel in this area should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For general queries, please contact our Customer Services team.

Customers currently outside the UK, who wish to enquire about amending their flights should contact the STA Travel Global Travel Help Team by Clicking Here.

Explosions in Mumbai- Added 13 July 2011- Current 22nd July 2011
 
Following explosions in Mumbai on 13 July, the Foreign Office  are advising that major cities in India remain on high alert and British nationals should exercise caution..
The overall level of Foreign Office advice for India has not changed.
STA Travel are currently monitoring this situation and any updates will be added to this travel advice page.
Anyone concerned about travel in India should contact their Booking Branch for advice.
 
For general queries, please contact our Customer Services team.

Japan- Typoon Ma-On- Added 18th July- Updated 22nd July
 
The Foreign Office are advising that a Typhoon is currently approaching Japan:
Typhoon Ma-On is forecast to bring strong winds and heavy rain to southern parts of Japan from 18 July. Check with your airline before travelling and take all necessary precautions to ensure your safety.
The slow-moving typhoon was traveling southward off islands hundreds of kilometers south of central Tokyo on Thursday afternoon and is expected to move away from the Japanese archipelago after changing its direction to northward off Japan's eastern coast over the weekend.

Qantas – Pilot Strike Action- Added 21st July- Current 22nd July

 

Qantas has been informed by the Australian and International Pilots Association (AIPA) that their long-haul pilots will commence industrial action on Friday 22nd July due to an industrial dispute. At this stage Qantas does not anticipate that there will be any flight delays or cancellations.
Please find below a copy of the press statement from Qantas:

Qantas Disappointed by Pilots' Union Action
Qantas has been informed by the Australian and International Pilots Association (AIPA) that long-haul pilots will take industrial action from this Friday including making union announcements to passengers over the in-flight public address system.
Qantas is assessing the implications of the work bans and will write to the pilots’ union to seek clarification. At this stage we don’t expect any flight delays or cancellations.
Qantas’ priority is always to our customers and we are disappointed that the pilots' union would intentionally disturb customers’ in-flight experience to make a point during an industrial dispute.

STA Travel are monitoring this situation and any updates will be added to this Travel Advice page.

Ecuador Volcano- Updated 15th July

The Foreign Office no longer advise against travel to within 5 miles of the Tungurahua volcano.

However they continue to advise against all travel to the areas immediately bordering Colombia in Carchi province (except the town of Tulcan); and to the town of San Lorenzo located in the north of the province of Esmeraldas.

Anyone with concerns about travel in Ecuador should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

For general queries please contact our Customer Services Team.

Virgin Atlantic Pilot Strike- Updated 11th July

 

The airline pilots' union Balpa says it is lifting the threat of strike action at Virgin Atlantic which could have affected travellers' summer holidays.

Balpa said it had secured a new offer from the airline, which it will present to its members in the coming weeks.

Updates will be added to this Travel Advice page as soon as details are available.

Australia Volcanic Ash Disruption- Updated 8th July

 

Qantas are advising that there are currently no disruptions as a result of the volcanic eruption in Chile.

For more information please see the airline's websites:

Qantas
Jetstar
Virgin Australia
Tiger
Air New Zealand

Anyone with concerns about travel in Australia and New Zealand should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

Customer who are already outside the UK who wish to enquire about amending their flights should contact our Global Travel Help team by Clicking Here.

For general queries please contact our Customer Service Team.

 

Public Sector Strike Action- Current 30th June

Following reports of a 24 hour national Strike of public sector workers in the UK on the 30th June 2011, we have been advised that many UK Border Agency staff are expected to take part.

This will affect immigration and customs at international airports. As a result, passengers are advised to expect delays, and encouraged to allow extra time.

For more information please see http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/

STA Travel are monitoring this situation closely and further updates will be added to this Travel Advice page.

 

 

Cape Town Volcanic Ash Disruption- Current 24th June

 

On the 18th and 19th June a number of flights from Cape Town were disrupted or cancelled as a result of an ash cloud from the erupting volcano in Chile that has drifted over the Indian Ocean.

South African Airways now advise that as of today Monday 20th June flight operations into and out of Cape Town, Port Elizabeth and East London have returned to normal schedules.

Customers due to travel are advised to check with their airline to ascertain if their flight arrangements are affected. 

The overall level of advice for South Africa has not changed.

Anyone concerned about travel in this area should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

Volcano in Eritrea- Updated 16th June- Current 21st June

 

The Foreign Office have updated their travel advice in relation to the Volcanic eruption in Eritrea.

Normal schedules for air travel in and out of Asmara are expected to begin on 15 June.

Further disruption cannot be ruled out should wind direction change or if there is further volcanic activity. Travellers are advised to contact their airline for updated information before travelling.

Anyone with concerns about travel in Africa should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

Customer who are already outside the UK who wish to enquire about amending their flights should contact our Global Travel Help team by Clicking Here.

For general queries please contact our Customer Service Team.

 

 

Christchurch Earthquake Aftershocks- Added 13th June - Current 21st June
 

A series of powerful tremors have hit the New Zealand city of Christchurch, almost four months after an earthquake that killed 181 people.

A magnitude-5.2 quake struck at Taylors Mistake beach, 9.6km (six miles) from the city centre.

A second magnitude-6.0 quake struck an hour and 20 minutes later, destroying at least one building and causing injuries to several people.

The tremors forced the evacuation of shopping centres, office blocks and Christchurch airport.

A week ago, Christchurch was also hit by two shocks which increased nervousness in the city.

STA Travel are currently monitoring this situation.

Anyone with concerns about travel in Africa should contact their Booking Branch for advice.

Customer who are already outside the UK who wish to enquire about amending their flights should contact our Global Travel Help team by Clicking Here.

For general queries please contact our Customer Service Team.

 

Egypt Travel Update - Current 10th June 2011

 

The Foreign Office have updated their travel advice for Egypt and no longer advise against all but essential travel to the city of Qena. Please see an extract from the travel advice below:

A demonstration is planned in Cairo for Friday 10 June centred on Tahrir Square. You should avoid this and any other demonstrations, and observe instructions and advice given by local security authorities.

There have been recent protests by Bedouins on roads in Sinai, in particular between Ras Sudr and Abu Rudeis and in Wadi Feran in south Sinai. If you are considering travelling by road in Sinai, exercise caution and seek advice from local security authorities before proceeding.

There are no travel restrictions in place for Egypt.

Anyone concerned about travel in Egypt should contact their Booking Branch for advice.
 
Customers currently outside the UK, who wish to enquire about amending their flights should contact the STA Travel Global Travel Help Team by Clicking Here.
 
For general queries, please contact our Customer Services Team.

USA- Severe Weather- Added 2nd May
 
A state of emergency has been declared for Alabama, Arkansas and Tennessee as a result of strong tornados and storms that have hit the south-eastern United States. Alabama appears to have been the worst  A massive tornado has struck the Alabama city of Tuscaloosa reportedly killing more than 335 people. Fatalities have also been reported in Mississipi, Georgia and Tennessee.

As a result of the storms a number of areas have been without power, and more storms are believed to be on the way.

The Foreign Office have reported on the storms however, there are no travel restrictions in place in the United States.

Explosion in Istanbul- Added 26th May 2011
 
The media are reporting that a bomb exploded on the 26th May at a crowded bus stop in one of Istanbul's busy shopping districts today injuring seven people.
The Foreign Office have also reported on this incident, but have not changed their travel advisory for Turkey.