Travel Plans Affected by Samoan Government - 4 Dec 2019

The Samoan Government has issued new State of Emergency orders to take immediate effect, as it prepares for a nation-wide measles vaccination campaign.

Samoa still welcomes visitors, who are strongly advised to take heed of the said plans, where all public services and private businesses will be on halt from 7am to 5pm on Thursday 5th and Friday 6th December 2019, to allow for extra personnel for smooth execution of this national operation.

During the closure period, all inter-island travels between Upolu and Savaii Islands will be closed. Visitors currently in Savaii that are scheduled to depart Samoa in the closure period days of Thursday and Friday, are advised to kindly make their way to Upolu today or make further arrangements. Transport tourism services for transfer of tourists will still be open for guests in Upolu, while inter-island ferries will only resume normal travel on Saturday.

Civil aviation services, hotels and accommodation services, communication services and hospitals are exempt with a few other needed services during the closure period.

If you have concerns about your travel plans, please contact your Flight Centre Travel Expert directly, and refer to the SafeTravel website for up to date information and advice.

 


Travelling to Brunei and/or with Royal Brunei Airlines - 08 April 2019

New Zealanders in Brunei Darussalam are strongly advised to familiarise themselves with and observe local law and customs, including shariah/syariah/sharia law.  A non-exhaustive list of illegal activities under Syariah law includes blasphemy, sodomy, and adultery.

Syariah law applies to Muslims, non-Muslims, and foreigners, and penalties can be very severe (including physical punishment and the death penalty). (Source: Safe Travel, 8 April 2019).

The safety and wellbeing of our customers is very important – please ensure you understand this advice before booking travel to the region or with Royal Brunei Airlines. If you have an existing flight booking made through Flight Centre and would like to initiate a change or refund, please contact your Travel Expert or our 24/7 Customer Care team. Flight Centre will cover our own amendment / cancellation fees. Please note, we cannot control or cover any fees / additional charges enforced by Royal Brunei Airlines.

 


Christchurch Mosque Tragedy - 18 March 2019

All of our team at Flight Centre are saddened by the tragic events that happened in our beautiful country last week. 

To New Zealand, Christchurch and the Muslim Community we are - One World One Family – and we extend our most sincere sympathy, love and support to all those affected.

In the travel industry we have the unique role of helping our customers explore the world and its many diverse people. It is through travel that we learn to appreciate all cultures, meet new friends and extend our hand in peace.

Our hearts are broken but we have faith that together we can use our knowledge of the world to promote closer ties and respect among all people.

For our customers due to travel to Christchurch, or those needing to travel to Christchurch, that have questions, please contact your travel expert as soon as possible.  We have a team of experts available around the clock to provide support and advice.   

Air New Zealand and Jetstar are offering flexibility to anyone booked to travel to or from Christchurch. If customers have questions about changes to their flight we recommend you contact your travel expert.

The Civil Aviation Authority is security screening all departing passengers in Christchurch, this includes regional flights. As such, it may take longer to complete check in and process through security. We recommend all passengers arrive early for their flights.

 


Travel on Boeing 737 Max aircraft - 13 March 2019

Boeing 737 max aircraft operations temporarily suspended

New Zealand’s Civil Aviation Authority has temporarily suspended the operation of Boeing 737 MAX aircraft to or from New Zealand until more information is known about the cause of the Ethiopian Airlines accident.

This is in line with the stance taken by many aviation regulators and airlines globally.

Countries that have grounded the 737 MAX include the following:

  • New Zealand
  • Australia
  • China
  • European Union (all member nations)
  • Indonesia
  • Malaysia
  • Oman
  • Singapore
  • South Korea
  • Turkey

Airlines that have grounded their 737 MAX fleets outside of nationwide groundings include the following:

  • Aerolineas Argentinas
  • Aeromexico
  • Cayman Airways
  • Comair
  • Ethiopian Airlines
  • Gol Linhas Aereas
  • Icelandair
  • MIAT Mongolian Airlines
  • Norwegian
  • Royal Air Maroc

Major flight disruptions are unlikely but there is potential for disruption to travel as airlines work to replace the aircraft in a timely manner.

Currently this suspension affects only one operator to New Zealand, Fiji Airways. There are no other airlines that fly this aircraft type to New Zealand.

While restrictions are in place Fiji Airways are doing everything possible to ensure minimal disruption for passengers.

They have advised their existing aircraft fleet will be used to replace flights which were to be operated by the 737 MAX 8s. They have no intention to cancel services. 

It’s important travellers remember this does not affect all Fiji Airways flights into and out of New Zealand, only ones that were due to operate the 737 Max 8 aircraft.

Flight Centre travel experts are working with those customers affected to provide advice and help explore alternative travel options if needed.

Any Flight Centre customers wondering what type of plane they are travelling on can contact their travel expert who can advise, or they’ll be able to find this information on their itinerary if they've already booked.

We are monitoring the situation closely and in constant communication with the relevant airlines across the globe. Updated information is distributed nationwide to our travel experts as it becomes available.


Japan - Cyclone Jebi - 05 Sep 2018

Cyclone Jebi made landfall in the West of Honshu island, Japan yesterday (Tuesday) around noon.  The most powerful typhoon to hit the country in 25 years has left significant damage in its wake.

The affected areas are around Osaka, Kobe and Kyoto regions. Tokyo was not in the path of the typhoon.

Currently Kansai International Airport is closed and more than 700 flights departing and arriving in western and central Japan have been cancelled.

Chubu Airport in Nagoya (NGO) was also affected with a number of flight disruptions but is operating again today.

Some ferry, local train and bullet train services remain affected and people in the worst areas have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel as they still manage floodwaters, fallen powerlines and debris.

Schools, many businesses and tourist attractions including Universal Studios in Osaka, remain closed.

Anyone due to be travelling to any of the impacted regions in the coming days should contact their Flight Centre travel expert should they like to discuss their individual travel itinerary.

Any travellers in the region are advised to be sensible and follow the direction of the local authorities. We’d advise checking the Japan Meteorological Association for information in English.


New regulations around the carriage of powders on aircraft - 05 July 2018 (Update)

How is ‘powder’ defined for the purpose of airplane carriage?

Organic and Inorganic Powders include:

Organic Powders

  • Coffee
  • Protein powders
  • Flour, spices, sugar
  • Powdered baby formula
  • Powdered food

Inorganic Powders

  • Talcum powder
  • Salt scrubs
  • Powdered deodorant
  • Powdered detergents
  • Foot powders
  • Cosmetics

Are all powders restricted?
Generally the restrictions are applying to inorganic powders such as cosmetics, talcum powder, detergents etc. Organic powders such as flour, powdered baby formula, spices and the like will have to be checked but generally will be exempt from the weight restriction.

 


Bali - Mount Agung Eruption - 29 June 2018

Mt Agung in Bali has erupted again this week with a large ash cloud emerging on Thursday 28 June. 

Ngaruh Rai International Airport in Denpasar (DPS) has since closed and the airport is expected to remain closed until at least this evening (June 29) with all flights currently suspended.

If you are due to be travelling to Bali and have questions about your travel itinerary or travel insurance policy we recommend contacting your store or travel expert for the most up to date advice asap.

Please ensure your travel expert has your full and correct contact information so that we can reach you to advise the status of your flight should it be affected. At Flight Centre we have our 24/7 helpline service so you can contact us at any time.

We also recommend registering your details with Safe Travel in order to keep updated on the most recent information.

We will be continuing to monitor the situation and will update this page should there be any further developments.

 


New regulations around the carriage of powders on aircraft - 27 June 2018

Effective from this Saturday, 30 June 2018, international travellers will see the introduction of a new restriction on the carriage of powders in carry-on luggage.

These restrictions will apply in the same way that limitations are placed on the carriage of liquids, aerosols and gels.

Individual items will no longer be able to exceed 350 grams, or 12 ounces in your carry-on luggage. The average weight of a loose cosmetic powder is around 30g and a compact powder averages around 12g.

How is ‘powder’ defined for the purpose of airplane carriage? Powders include:

  • Cosmetics
  • Talcum powder
  • Protein powders
  • Flour
  • Spices
  • Sugar
  • Powdered baby formula
  • Coffee
  • Powdered food
  • Salt scrubs
  • Foot powders
  • Powdered deodorant
  • Powdered detergents

Prescription baby formulas (powdered) and medications (prescribed by a doctor) may exceed these limitations. Cremated human remains are also exempt. These items will have to be verified and then placed in a secure, tamper-free bag. Duty free items purchased at the airport will also be sealed in secure, tamper-proof bags for carriage on the aircraft.

At this stage the United States’ TSA (Transport Safety Authority) and the Australian border security have confirmed that they will be screening powders from 30 June. Other countries along with airlines will provide updates but we should anticipate that this will eventually be adopted globally.

We advise all customers flying internationally from 30 June to adhere to these rules and separate any items containing powder along with their liquids, aerosols and gels when they are passing through airport security.

If you have any questions about the new regulations please contact your travel expert to get the most up to date information.


Volcanic Activity on Hawaii's Big Island - 16 May 18

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) has issued a warning that a major eruption from the Kilauea volcano on Hawaii's Big Island is now imminent. 

The current ash cloud is drifting south of the volcano and is not affecting either of the airports on the Big Island - Hilo (ITO) or Kona (KOA).  At this stage, there remains little or no impact on hotels, resorts or tourism activities.

At Flight Centre we will be continuing to monitoring the situation closely and distribute communications nationwide to our travel experts as it becomes available.

We recommend anyone currently on the Big Island ensure they listen to local authorities and follow their direction. 

If you are due to be travelling to the region ensure your travel expert has your full and correct contact information should airlines need to reach you. Its also a good idea to register with Safe Travel in order to keep updated on the most recent information.

It is important you do not assume your holiday will be affected. At this stage there is no impact on travel to the region.


Air New Zealand Dreamliner schedule changes due to maintenance requirements

Air New Zealand has retimed some international flights and made a limited number of cancellations between today and mid next week due to a global issue requiring earlier than expected maintenance on some of the Trent 1000 engines fitted to its 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft.

This is an earlier than expected maintenance check and is not the result of a fault or a particular issue.

Air New Zealand is doing all it can to minimise the impact of these unforeseen checks on customers and is also working to secure lease aircraft to help with additional capacity.

Air New Zealand fly the Dreamliner on most of their long haul destinations but, this can change with their scheduling depending on where their crafts are required. In addition to long haul destinations, they also use the Dreamliner for some Perth, Sydney and Honolulu services.

It is important you do not assume all flights will be impacted, however should you be due to travel in the next 10 days on an Air New Zealand 787-9 Dreamliner we recommend contacting your travel expert as soon as possible.

Your Flight Centre travel expert will be able to assist with the re-booking process if necessary. At Flight Centre we have our 24/7 helpline service so you can contact us at any time.


Boracy Island closure - Philippines - 06 April 2018

A decision has been made by the Philippine Government to close the island of Boracay to all tourism for a period of six months from 26 April 2018.

The reason for this is to enable Boracay's authorities to manage a process of environmental rehabilitation on the island which has been greatly impacted by a high number of visitors in recent years.  The ultimate outcome will be positive for travellers who wish to enjoy a truly pristine island experience.

Formal advice from the Philippine Government will be available soon.  We will be able to provide more detailed information once this information is public and will update this page as appropriate.

If you are due to be travelling to Boracay from 26 April 2018 onwards please contact your travel expert asap. They will be able to provide further information and advice on your individual itinerary. At Flight Centre we have our 24/7 helpline service so you can contact us at any time.

 


Storm impacting travel in parts of Europe and the UK - 27 February 2018

Flight Centre are closely monitoring a storm which is currently impacting parts of Europe and is expected to bring snow and freezing temperatures to the UK over the coming days.

The storm has been progressively moving across the continent, from the east, towards the south west. Rome was blanketed in snow on Monday (February 26) and parts of Germany have recorded temperatures as low as -27C (-16.6F). Other Western European countries including France, Austria and Sweden are also experiencing freezing temperatures and snow.

Snow is also falling in parts of the UK and these weather conditions are expected to remain for a number of days.

We advise any customers due to travel to the region in the coming days reconfirm flights and allow plenty of time to travel to/from airports. British Airways (BA) has cancelled a number of services.

Visitors to the region are advised to take great care driving in the stormy conditions and avoid unnecessary travel where possible.

Customers with questions should contact their store or travel expert asap to get the latest advice on their individual itineraries and travel insurance policies. At Flight Centre we have our 24/7 helpline service so they can contact us at any time.

We will be continuing to monitor the situation in the UK and Europe and updated information will be provided to our customers as it becomes available.

 


Tropical Cyclone Gita - 14 February 2018

Tropical Cyclone Gita made landfall in Samoa over the weekend causing flooding, landslides and power outages.  Some roads around the capital Apia were affected due to flooding and a number of beachfront properties sustained damage.

The cyclone has since made landfall in Tonga, there has been considerable damage to some properties and Tongas Fua'amotu International Airport is experiencing delays. People who are currently in Tonga should take care to avoid the damaged areas and follow the direction of local authorities.

Overnight the cyclone reached the southern most islands of Fiji. The mainland was not affected and the international airport remains open.

Anyone due to be travelling to these islands over the coming days should contact their Flight Centre travel expert as soon as possible to discuss their travel plans, or contact their airline directly for updated departure information.

Should you require immediate assistance today you can phone Flight Centres 24/7 assist number on 0800 24 35 44.

Flight Centre will be closely monitoring the situation as the cyclone travels down to New Caledonia. Our travel experts around the country will be kept updated with information as it becomes available.

 


Bali - Mount Agung - 28 November 2017

Bali's Mt Agung is once again erupting sending ash cloud into the sky and resulting in the cancellation of a number of flights.

At present the ash cloud has reached heights exceeding 4,500m and Ngurah Rai Airport in Denpasar is currently closed. This has resulted in all flights into the airport being suspended.

The reason for this is because when a volcano erupts, the ash cloud it produces can pose a threat to aircraft flying in the area. This is because volcanic ash is hard and abrasive, and can damage propellers and turbocompressor blades, as well as scratching cockpit windows which impairs visibility.

Indonesia's Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation (VONA) has also extended the exclusion zone from 7.5km around the volcano to 10 km.  Immediate evacuations have been ordered. If you are currently in Bali please ensure you follow the advice of local authorities.

If you are due to be travelling to Bali and have questions about your travel itinerary or travel insurance policy we recommend contacting your store or travel expert for the most up to date advice asap. Please ensure your travel expert has your full and correct contact information so that we can reach you to advise the status of your flight should it be affected. At Flight Centre we have our 24/7 helpline service so you can contact us at any time.

We also recommend registering your details with Safe Travel in order to keep updated on the most recent information.

We will be continuing to monitor the situation and will update this page should there be any further developments.

 


Las Vegas Shooting - 03 October 2017

On Sunday October 1st 2018 a mass shooting occurred at the Route 91 Festival across from the Mandalay Bay Hotel on the Las Vegas strip.

The Las Vegas McCarran Airport is open and operating although services may be delayed.  The main roads in and out of Las Vegas are also open.

Customers who are currently staying at the Mandalay Bay, or who are due to arrive in the next 24 hours, may face some disruptions. All other hotels are operating as usual.  

Should you be concerned about upcoming travel we recommend phoning your travel expert for the most up-to-date information and advice. You can also phone Flight Centres 24/7 helpline on 0800 24 35 44.

We also recommend registering your details at www.safetravel.govt.nz to receive up-to-date travel alerts.
 

Bali - Mount Agung - 25 September 2017

Indonesia has issued its highest level alert for a volcano in relation to Mount Agung on Bali.

The latest report from Indonesia's volcano observatory for aviation said the likelihood of an eruption appears to be increasing. But that eruptions cannot be predicted with perfect accuracy.

At present, flights are operating as normal and there are no changes to departure times.

Travellers in the area should take advice from local authorities; there should be zero public activity within the specified radius. Outside of the exclusion zone the island is considered safe, this includes the main tourist areas.

If you are due to be travelling to Bali and have any questions we recommend contacting your store or travel expert for the most up to date advice. At Flight Centre we have our 24/7 helpline service so you can contact us at any time.

We also recommend registering your details with Safe Travel in order to keep updated on the most recent information.

We will be continuing to monitor the situation and will update this page should there be any further developments.


US Executive Order now in limited effect - 28 June 2017

 
The Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) ruled on 26 June 2017 to allow the President’s executive order relating to the travel ban to be implemented in limited effect.
 
Effective 29 June 2017 and until further notice, there are restrictions on citizens of Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen from entering the US. 
 
People who are dual citizens of one of the listed countries and another will still require a visa to enter the USA but will not be restricted.
 
Please refer to your nearest US embassy or consulate for further clarification.
 

Travel Announcement - Qatar - 06 June 2017

 

The Maldives, Yemen, Libya, Bahrain, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have suspended all diplomatic ties with Qatar.

All air and sea ports as well as land borders between Qatar and these seven nations are closed which means that all flights are suspended until further notice.

There will be very few travellers from New Zealand affected by the announcement, for example anyone due to be flying Qatar Airways (ie. up to Europe) is business as usual, unless they are flying from Doha to one of the seven nations listed above.

Any Flight Centre customers who are due to be travelling to the region that have questions should speak to their travel expert as soon as possible. Affected airlines are offering refunds or re-accommodation to other ports for customers.

Flight Centre will be continuing to monitor the situation and will update this page should there be any further developments. 

 

Manchester Explosions - 23 May 2017

 
On Monday 22nd May (local time) in Manchester, England, a terror attack occured with multiple explosions at a concert arena.
 
Manchester Airport is still operational but the rail network in and around the affected area will be experiencing delays.
 
Should you be concerned about upcoming travel we recommend phoning your travel expert for the most up-to-date information and advice. You can also phone Flight Centres 24/7 helpline on 0800 24 35 44.
 
We also recommend registering your details at www.safetravel.govt.nz to receive up-to-date travel alerts.
 

Auckland Airport Delays - 22 May 2017

Due to the earlier distruption at Auckland Airport as a result from the software malfunction, there are delays traveling through the Auckland International and Domestic Terminals.
 
If you are traveling through Auckland Airport today, please allow extra time as there will be delays throughout the airport.
 
Should you require immediate assistance today you can phone Flight Centres 24/7 number on 0800 24 35 44. 
 

Cyclone Cook - 13 April 2017

Cyclone Cook is due to make landfall in New Zealand this evening and some disruption is predicted in parts of the country, particularly to domestic travel.

If you are due to be travelling today or tomorrow we recommend allowing plenty of time to transfer to the airport and checking with your airline directly for the most up-to-date information. 

Should you require immediate assistance today you can phone Flight Centres 24/7 number on 0800 24 35 44.

Flight Centre will be continuing to monitor the situation and will update this page should there be any further developments. 


American Airlines - 13 April 2017

American Airlines has today advised they will be suspending their Auckland – Los Angeles - Auckland service temporarily from 7 August to 6 October 2017 while they await the delivery of their new 787-9 aircraft into the NZ market. 

The service is due to re-commence with the new aircraft ex Auckland on 7 October 2017 (departing Los Angeles 05 October 2017).

Flight Centre travel experts are contacting all customers impacted by these changes. If you haven’t been contacted and have questions about upcoming travel with American Airlines we recommend you speak to your local travel expert as soon as possible. 


Gift Card Competition Scam Email - 13 April 2017

Recently we have seen and been aware of a suspicisous email circulating around, advising people to enter the draw to win a Flight Centre gift card of certain amounts.
 
Please note that this is no way associated with Flight Centre New Zealand and we deem this activity suspicious to obtain peoples details for further negative use.
 
If you receive an email similar to the below, please delete it straight away and do not open it. 
 
 
 
If you have any concerns, please feel free to call us on 0800 35 44 48 or email us at customerexperience@flightcentre.co.nz.
 

Personal Electronics Ban - 22 March 2017

On Tuesday 21 March 2017 the US government announced that certain electronic devices will be forbidden in the cabins of particular flights from the Middle East and North Africa, to the USA.  The UK government followed suit some hours later.
 
Below outlines the flights affected and what electronic devices are banned. Should you have questions about the new regulations in regards to your travel plans we advise you contact your travel expert or your airline as soon as possible to get the most up to date information.
 
Flight Centre will update this page should there be any further developments. 
 
USA flights affected:
Customers travelling on direct services to the USA from any of the following ten cities will not be permitted to carry most electronic devices in the cabin with them:
  • Abu Dhabi, UAE (AUH)
  • Dubai, UAE (DXB)
  • Amman, Jordan (AMM)
  • Istanbul, Turkey (IST)
  • Cairo, Egypt (CAI)
  • Jeddah, Saudi Arabia (JED)
  • Casablanca, Morocco (CAS)
  • Kuwait City, Kuwait (KWI)
  • Doha, Qatar (DOH)
  • Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (RUH)
 
UK flights are affected?
Customers travelling on direct services to the UK from any port in the following six countries will not be permitted to carry most electronic devices in the cabin with them:
  • Egypt
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Jordan
  • Tunisia
  • Lebanon
  • Turkey
 
What electronic devices are banned?
People on these flights will not be permitted to carry most electronic items that are larger than a smartphone in the cabin with them.  These items must be placed in their checked luggage.
  • Laptops - larger than 16cm x 9.3cm
  • Cameras and lenses – please check with the airline directly regarding specifications
  • Tablets / iPads / Kindles / e readers – larger than 16cm x 9.3cm
  • Portable DVD players - larger than 16cm x 9.3cm
  • Electronic game devices - larger than 16cm x 9.3cm
  • Travel printers and scanners - larger than 16cm x 9.3cm
 
Some airlines include bluetooth headphones and cameras in this ban.  It is very important that travelers check directly with their airline.   
 
UPDATE:
Please note: Effective 03 July, Etihad (EY) flights from Abu Dhabi (AUH) to the USA were exempted from the restrictions. From 05 July Emirates (EK) flights from Dubai (DXB) and Turkish Airlines (TK) flights from Istanbul (IST) were exempted and effective 07 July, Qatar flights from Doha (DOH) are exempt. Customers travelling on these three carriers between Abu Dhabi / Dubai / Doha and the USA may carry all their electronic devices on board.
 

Travel to the United States of America - 31 January 2017

Over the weekend President Trump signed an executive order that took immediate effect and which has denied certain people entry to the USA.

  • A ban denying entry to all refugees for a period of 120 days - even those already approved for resettlement.
  • An indefinite ban on all Syrian refugees
  • A 90 day ban on entry to the USA for all citizens of Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen

If you are due to be travelling to the USA we recommend speaking with your travel expert or directly with the airline as soon as possible for the most up-to-date information. 

At Flight Centre we have our 24/7 line so you can contact us at any time on 0800 24 35 44


South Island Earthquake - 14 November 2016

A large earthquake measuring 7.5 centred in Hanmer Springs north of Christchurch occurred at around midnight November 13 (local time). This earthquake was felt across much of New Zealand and has been followed by aftershocks throughout the night.

Damage has been reported in some parts of the country and as a result some Flight Centre stores will be closed until further notice. There will also be some disruptions to domestic travel across New Zealand. 

Should you require immediate assistance today you can phone Flight Centres 24/7 number on 0800 24 35 44. We also recommend checking with your airline directly should you be due to fly today. 

Flight Centre will be continuing to monitor the situation and will update this page should there be any further developments. 


Explosions in Thailand - 12 August 2016

There have been reports of explosions in Hua Hin, Phuket and Surat Thani.  Fires have also been reported in the southern provinces of Phang Nga, Krabie, Trang and Surat Thani. 

Should you be concerned about upcoming travel we recommend phoning your travel expert for the most up-to-date information and advice. You can also phone Flight Centres 24/7 helpline on 0800 24 35 44.

We also recommend registering your details at www.safetravel.govt.nz to receive up-to-date travel alerts.

Flight Centre are continuing to monitor the situation in Thailand and will update this page should there be any further developments. 


Incident in Nice, France – 15 July 2016

On Thursday 14 July 2016 (local time), a truck was intentionally driven through a crowd at Bastille Day celebrations in Nice, southern France.

Should you have concerns about upcoming travel to France we recommend phoning your travel expert for the most up-to-date information and advice.

We also recommend registering your details at www.safetravel.govt.nz to receive up-to-date travel alerts. You can also phone Flight Centres 24/7 helpline on 0800 24 35 44.

Flight Centre is continuing to monitor the situation in Nice and will update this page should there be any further developments.


Explosions at Istanbul Ataturk Airport - 06 Apr 2016

Late Tuesday evening June 28 2016 (local time) there were gunshots and two explosions at Istanbul's Ataturk International Airport (IST).  Subsequently all flights in and out of the airport have been temporarily suspended as the airport is in lockdown.   

Should you be due to travel to Istanbul's Ataturk International Airport (IST) or have concerns about upcoming travel to Turkey we recommend phoning your travel expert for the most up-to-date information and advice.

We also recommend registering your details at www.safetravel.govt.nz to receive up-to-date travel alerts.

Flight Centre are continuing to monitor the situation and will update this page should there be any further developments. 


Travel to Fiji - 06 Apr 2016

Ongoing heavy rain and flooding has resulted in the cancellation of a number of flights to Nadi, Fiji today, April 6 2016 (see the Nadi Airport website HERE).

If you are due to be travelling to Fiji we recommend speaking with your travel expert or directly with the airline as soon as possible for the most up-to-date information. 

At Flight Centre we have our 24/7 assist line so you can contact us at anytime. 


Brussels Terror Attacks - 23 Mar 2016

On Tuesday March 22nd 2016, two explosions occurred at Zaventum International Airport in Brussels and a further explosion occurred at Maelbeek station.

Should you have concerns about upcoming travel to Brussels we recommend phoning your travel expert for the most up-to-date information and advice.

We also recommend registering your details at www.safetravel.govt.nz to receive up-to-date travel alerts.

Flight Centre are continuing to monitor the situation and will update this page should there be any further developments. 


Cyclone Winston (Update) - 25 Feb 2016

Tropical Cyclone Winston struck Fiji on February 20 2016 causing widespread damage. Nadi International Airport has reopened and commercial flights have resumed. Many resorts have also re-opened although some are operating on limited availability.

Anyone due to depart to Fiji in the coming weeks should speak to their Flight Centre travel expert as soon as possible to discuss their travel plans.  

New Zealanders in Fiji are advised to follow the advice of the local authorities and keep family and friends in New Zealand informed of their safety and well-being.  

 

Cyclone Winston - 19 Feb 2016

Air New Zealand, Fiji Airways and Virgin Australia have advised flights to and from Nadi, Fiji this weekend will be affected by tropical cyclone Winston.
 
If you are due to be travelling to to Nadi this weekend we recommend speaking with your travel expert or directly with the airline as soon as possible for the most up-to-date information. 
 
At Flight Centre we have our 24/7 assist line so you can contact us at anytime. 
 

Zika Virus - 03 Feb 2016

There is ongoing concern about the spread of the mosquito-borne Zika virus and the impact of Zika infections on pregnant women and their babies. 

Cases of Zika virus have been reported in Africa, southern Asia, the Pacific Islands, and the Americas.

Should you be concerned about upcoming travel to any of the affected countries we recommend speaking with a medical expert and referring to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Travel website www.safetravel.govt.nz in order to make an informed choice about your travel plans.

Should you wish to discuss rearranging travel please speak with your travel expert as soon as possible. You can also phone the Flight Centre emergency assist line 24/7.


Air New Zealand, Virgin & Qantas - Vanuatu - 29 Jan 2016

Air New Zealand, Virgin Australia & Qantas have announced they will be suspending services to Vanuatu in light of on-going concerns about the condition of the runway to Port Vila International Airport. 

Air New Zealand will operate one more return service between Auckland and Vanuatu on Sunday January 24th 2016 in order to repatriate customers, supported by additional safety measures.

Should you be due to travel to Vanuatu with Air New Zealand or Qantas we recommend phoning your travel expert as soon as possible for the most up-to-date information and advice. You can also phone the Flight Centre emergency assist line 24/7.


Manila, Philippines (APEC Summit) - 17 Nov 2015

Due to the APEC summit being held in Manila from November 16 – 20 2015 there are currently some disruptions to flights in and out of Manila Airport.

Should you be due to travel to Manila during this time we recommend phoning your travel expert for the most up-to-date information and advice. You can also phone Flight Centre 24/7 on 0800 24 35 44.

Alternatively we recommend speaking directly with your airline for the most up-to-date schedule of available flights.


Paris Terror Attacks - 14 Nov 2015

In the wake of various terror attacks across Paris on Friday night (local time) the French government has declared a state of emergency and implemented new security measures. Should you have concerns about upcoming travel we recommend phoning your travel expert for the most up-to-date information and advice.

You can also phone Flight Centres 24/7 helpline on 0800 24 35 44. We also recommend registering your details at www.safetravel.govt.nz to recieve up-to-date travel alerts. Flight Centre are continuing to monitor the situation in Paris and will update this page should there be any further developments.


Bangkok Explosion - 18 Aug 2015

A large explosion has rocked central Bangkok.  Police have advised that the explosion occurred at Ratchaprasong, which is the name of an intersection and shopping centre in the Pathum Wan district of Bangkok.

Should you be concerned about upcoming travel we recommend phoning your travel expert for the most up-to-date information and advice. You can also phone Flight Centres 24/7 helpline on 0800 24 35 44.

We also recommend registering your details at www.safetravel.govt.nz to receive up-to-date travel alerts.

Flight Centre are continuing to monitor the situation in Thailand and will update this page should there be any further developments. 


Bali Volcano - 16 Jul 2015

Flights in and out of Denpasar and other Indonesian airports have been disrupted for a number of days now due to a volcanic ash cloud from the Mt Raung eruption

Improved conditions have meant some flights have been able to depart, however due to changeable wind conditions we are advising our customers call their travel expert as soon as possible to get the latest advice on their individual itineraries.

Customers can also speak directly with their airlines for the most up-to-date schedule of available flights.

Should you have any concerns about upcoming travel to Bali or any other affected Indonesian airports please speak with your travel expert or contact our 24/7 helpline on 0800 24 35 44.


Greece Update - 16 Jul 2015

The Greek government is set to default on loan repayments which has caused some unrest in Greece.  

Should you be concerned about upcoming travel we recommend phoning your travel expert for the most up-to-date information and advice on how best to prepare for your trip. You can also phone Flight Centres 24/7 helpline on 0800 24 35 44.

We also recommend registering your details at www.safetravel.govt.nz to receive up-to-date travel alerts.

Flight Centre are continuing to monitor the situation in Greece and will update this page should there be any further developments. 


USA ESTA Visas - 19 Jun 2015

The USA Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs is currently experiencing technical problems with its visa systems. Currently, they are unable to print most immigrant and non-immigrant visas approved after June 8, 2015. In addition, U.S. embassies and consulates are unable to process new applications submitted on or after June 9, 2015. Please refer to these websites for more information:

Experts are currently working around the clock to correct the issue but at this stage we do not have an estimated time for a solution; however they have indicated they do not expect the system will be online before next week. Should you have any concerns about upcoming travel to the USA please speak with your travel expert or contact our 24/7 helpline on 0800 24 35 44. Please note we are continuing to monitor the situation and will update this page as information becomes available.