The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is casting a shadow over European summer travel, with potential for higher ticket prices, cancellations, and last-minute changes. The European Commission has issued a warning that the de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz is disrupting energy exports, driving up fuel costs that affect airlines, road transport, trains, ships, and tour operators. If the crisis persists, travellers across the continent could face delays, longer journeys, and increased expenses.
In response, Brussels has published a guide outlining passenger rights and obligations for airlines, intermediaries, and travel organisers. The key message: information is power. Before booking, travellers should seek clear details and keep all documentation. If a flight is cancelled, passengers have the right to choose between reimbursement, re-routing, or return to the point of departure, plus assistance at the airport. For cancellations less than 14 days before departure, airlines must pay compensation unless they can prove extraordinary circumstances or have offered a suitable alternative in good time.
The Commission clarifies that a local fuel shortage preventing a flight from operating can qualify as an extraordinary circumstance. However, a mere rise in fuel prices does not exempt airlines from their obligations. Airlines cannot retroactively increase the price of a ticket already purchased due to higher fuel costs; the final price must be clear from the start of the booking process, including all foreseeable elements. Optional extras must be transparently communicated and expressly accepted.
Package Holidays and Price Adjustments
For package holidays—such as flight plus hotel—EU rules allow the organiser to increase the price if the contract permits and the increase is directly linked to fuel costs. There are limits: up to an 8% rise does not require the traveller's acceptance; above that threshold, the customer can accept the increase or cancel without penalty. Any price adjustment must be communicated at least 20 days before departure, with justification and a detailed calculation.
Eduardo Santander, CEO of the European Travel Commission, sees an advantage for Europe amid global turbulence. “85% of tourism in Europe is European and that protects us a lot,” he says. He predicts that this summer, people will travel closer to home, within the continent, potentially rediscovering European destinations. “Europe is like gold, a safe haven,” he adds. Santander advises travellers to pay close attention to purchase conditions, warning that many accept terms without reading them. His main advice: plan ahead and seek certainty. “Nobody goes on holiday to suffer.”
Gloria Guevara, president and CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council, anticipates a more price-conscious traveller. Tourists will focus on value for money, choosing destinations where they get the most for their spending. She suggests that travellers may reduce the number of holiday days and that intra-European tourism will increase, with less travel to Asia. Monitoring prices and ensuring that what is offered matches what is paid for is essential.
The European Commission insists that vouchers can only replace reimbursement if the passenger expressly accepts them. It also calls on airlines and intermediaries to avoid the conflicts seen during the Covid pandemic, such as insufficient information, difficulties in contacting companies, and delays in refunds. For those planning summer trips, comparing prices, reading the small print, and knowing your rights is no longer just a recommendation—it is the difference between a smooth holiday and one plagued by cancellations, extra costs, and endless complaints.
For more on related travel trends, see our coverage of Italy's ancient walking routes and the EU cross-border rail plan. As the summer season approaches, staying informed and prepared will be key to enjoying a stress-free break.
