TUI has announced the cancellation of additional flights to Cyprus while a UK Royal Navy warship is en route to the region.
Sir Keir Starmer mentioned that HMS Dragon, a Type 45 Destroyer, is being deployed to the Mediterranean area. The UK Prime Minister also informed Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides about the dispatch of helicopters equipped with anti-drone capabilities.
This action follows a drone incident that caused minor damage to the runway at the British air base in Cyprus, RAF Akrotiri.
On Tuesday, flights to the two main commercial airports in Cyprus were called off, with easyJet, Ryanair, and TUI all axing their services. TUI provided a significant update regarding its upcoming flights to Cyprus.
A TUI spokesperson stated, “Due to the evolving situation in the Middle East, we have decided to cancel the four TUI Airways flights scheduled for Wednesday, March 4th. We understand this may disappoint travelers, and we apologize for the disruption to their holiday plans. Our customer service teams are fully prepared, and we will contact each affected passenger directly to discuss available options.”
TUI outlined the next steps by saying, “Affected customers will receive direct communication offering them the choice to modify their booking without a fee, receive a rebooking incentive, or obtain a full refund.”
The company also confirmed that its next TUI Airways flights to Cyprus are set to operate on Saturday, March 7th, with ongoing monitoring of the situation for potential schedule adjustments.
Passengers scheduled to depart on Saturday are advised to monitor TUI’s travel alert page, check the app for updates, and stay informed about international developments.
Furthermore, TUI’s website offers guidance for customers currently in Cyprus, emphasizing customer safety as a top priority and providing a contact number for assistance.
While the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) does not currently advise against travel to Cyprus, numerous airlines have been canceling flights due to the prevailing circumstances.
The FCDO recommends that individuals planning a trip to Cyprus sign up for FCDO Travel Advice email alerts, stay informed on local news, and regularly review their travel plans as conditions can change rapidly.
