The next pilot strike at Lufthansa is once again causing chaos in air travel. The union Vereinigung Cockpit has called on more than 5,000 pilots to a 48-hour work stoppage on Thursday and Friday. Numerous flights from German airports are expected to be canceled. For travelers, the strike comes at an especially inconvenient time, as international air traffic is already under heavy pressure due to the tense situation in the Middle East.

Almost twelve years after the disappearance of flight MH370, the search in the Indian Ocean has been called off. The fate of the Boeing 777 with 239 people on board remains unknown.

Rising oil prices due to the Middle East conflict are making air travel more expensive. Air New Zealand is the first airline to officially confirm higher ticket prices due to sharply increased fuel costs.

Israel and the USA have launched military operations against Iran. Tehran responded with attacks on US bases and missiles targeting Israel. The Austrian Foreign Ministry warns against travel to Israel, Iran, Iraq, and Lebanon, and Austrian Airlines has suspended flights to the region. The situation remains extremely tense.

The strained energy supply in Cuba is now having noticeable effects on travelers. Due to an acute fuel shortage, foreign aircraft can only be refueled in a limited capacity on the island. Several airlines are responding with flight cancellations and repatriation operations for vacationers. This increases uncertainty for passengers with planned trips to Cuba.

Starting in April 2026, China Eastern Airlines will operate nonstop flights three times a week from Vienna to Xi’an. The historic city, famous for the Terracotta Army, is now directly accessible.

Starting in 2026 the Lufthansa Group will equip around 850 aircraft with Starlink highspeed internet. Passengers will benefit from fast connectivity and free access for status customers and Travel ID users. Full implementation is expected by 2029.

2026 starts turbulently: Travel warning level 4 is in effect for Venezuela and Iran, and Austrian Airlines has suspended flights to Iran. Global tensions and new entry restrictions are currently making travel more difficult.

Since January 1, 2026, travelers to Georgia must present travel health insurance with a coverage of at least 30,000 GEL (approx. 10,000 EUR) in English or Georgian.

Fly nonstop from Vienna to Muscat for the first time. SalamAir connects Austria with Oman three times a week for cultural and nature trips.