TURKEY is a Brit-loved holiday destination, with sun-soaked beaches, rich culture and amazing food.
But as tensions escalate in the region between Israel and Iran, many holidaymakers heading to Turkey are asking themselves whether it is safe to go — here’s what you need to know.
Is Turkey close to Iran?
Turkey shares part of its eastern border with Iran.
Iran is currently engaged in hostilities with Israel and both sides have launched missile strikes in the last few days.
Some of these have affected neighbouring countries such as Qatar, which despite not being actively involved in the conflict was the target of an attack on a US air base.
A ceasefire was announced yesterday morning (Tuesday June 24) but the deal was broken not long after.
Turkish tourist hotspots such as Bodrum, Istanbul and Cappadocia are not located near the country’s border with Iran.
Is it safe to travel to Turkey?
Turkey was visited by 4.4 million British tourists in 2024.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has not changed its travel advice for the country.
A statement — which predates the Israel-Iran unrest — reads: “FCDO advises against all travel to within 10km of the border with Syria due to fighting and a heightened risk of terrorism.”
However, it does not advise against travel to any other part of Turkey, indicating that the majority of the country is safe to visit and holidays can go ahead.
Have flights to Turkey been affected?
Several countries in the Middle East closed their airspaces in recent days, with a number of airlines cancelling flights as a result.
Many planes flying over the region were diverted to different airports, causing widespread chaos and severe delays including for travellers heading to Doha and Dubai.
Flights to Turkey are not currently affected by the volatile air traffic situation and package holidays to the country are continuing as normal.
Antalya, Dalaman, Istanbul and Bodrum Milas airports are all operating without delays, according to data on tracking site FlightRadar.
Can I cancel my holiday?
It is unlikely that you will be able to claim a refund from either a holiday provider or insurance company due to the FCDO having not advised against travel to Turkey.
If you wish to change the date or time of your trip, it is worth contacting the relevant airline or tour operator to see if they can offer any flexibility.
However, there is no guarantee that you will receive a refund for your booking.
Flight compensation rules
A look at your rights if a flight is delayed or cancelled, when your entitled to compensation and if your travel insurance can cover the costs.
What are my rights if my flight is cancelled or delayed?
Under UK law, airlines have to provide compensation if your flight arrives at its destination more than three hours late.
If you’re flying to or from the UK, your airline must let you choose a refund or an alternative flight.
You will be able to get your money back for the part of your ticket that you haven’t used yet.
So if you booked a return flight and the outbound leg is cancelled, you can get the full cost of the return ticket refunded.
But if travelling is essential, then your airline has to find you an alternative flight. This could even be with another airline.
When am I not entitled to compensation?
The airline doesn’t have to give you a refund if the flight was cancelled due to reasons beyond their control, such as extreme weather.
Disruptions caused by things like extreme weather, airport or air traffic control employee strikes or other ‘extraordinary circumstances’ are not eligible for compensation.
Some airlines may stretch the definition of “extraordinary circumstances” but you can challenge them through the aviation regulator the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Will my insurance cover me if my flight is cancelled?
If you can’t claim compensation directly through the airline, your travel insurance may refund you.
Policies vary so you should check the small print, but a delay of eight to 12 hours will normally mean you qualify for some money from your insurer.
Remember to get written confirmation of your delay from the airport as your insurer will need proof.
If your flight is cancelled entirely, you’re unlikely to be covered by your insurance.
