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Today — 1 March 2026Main stream

Thousands of Passengers across Saudi Arabia in Severe Travel Crisis amid US-Israel Strike on Iran, as Airports in Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and Madinah Face 324 Flight Delays and 279 Cancellations, Impacting Saudia, Gulf Air, FlyDubai, Etihad Airways and Several other Carriers, New Update

Thousands of Passengers across Saudi Arabia in Severe Travel Crisis amid US-Israel Strike on Iran, as Airports in Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and Madinah Face 324 Flight Delays and 279 Cancellations, Impacting Saudia, Gulf Air, FlyDubai, Etihad Airways and Several other Carriers, New Update

A significant travel crisis has been triggered across the Middle East following military strikes involving the US and Israel, resulting in unprecedented disruption to civil aviation within Saudi Arabia. As regional airspaces face sudden closures and restrictive safety protocols, the Kingdom’s primary aviation hubs have reported a staggering surge in flight irregularities. On this day of heightened geopolitical tension, a total of 279 cancellations and 324 delays have been recorded across the nation’s four most critical international gateways. The scale of the disruption has left thousands of passengers stranded, with terminals in Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and Madinah struggling to manage the overflow of affected travellers. Major regional and international carriers, including Saudia, Gulf Air, FlyDubai and Etihad Airways, have been forced to suspend operations or drastically alter flight paths to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.

Major Airports Affected

The impact of the crisis is most acutely felt at King Abdulaziz International in Jeddah, which serves as the primary gateway for international pilgrims and a central hub for the national carrier. The airport has reported 110 cancellations and 123 delays, the highest figures among all affected sites. This volume of disruption is particularly significant given the airport’s role in facilitating both business and religious travel.

AirlineCancellations % CancellationsDelays % Delays
Saudia4512%4212%
IndiGo14100%00%
Gulf Air990%110%
FlyDubai660%220%
Etihad Airways675%00%
Emirates583%00%
Air India466%00%
Wizz Air Malta4100%00%
Pegasus Airlines4100%00%
Malaysia Airlines3100%00%
Flynas31%3619%
Wizz Air UK2100%00%
Wizz Air2100%00%
Akasa Air2100%00%
Scoot150%00%
flyadeal00%1310%
Fly Jinnah00%116%
Air Astana00%1100%
Lion Air00%112%
MEA00%375%
Air Cairo00%16%
Egypt Air00%15%
Nile Air00%250%
Oman Air00%225%
SalamAir00%375%
Pakistan International Airlines00%116%
Royal Jordanian00%450%
Tunisair00%150%
Turkish Airlines00%15%
Transavia France00%150%
AirAsia X00%1100%
Air Arabia00%240%
Air Algerie00%125%
Daallo Airlines00%120%
Eurowings00%150%

In the capital, King Khalid International in Riyadh has faced substantial operational hurdles, recording 84 cancellations and 89 delays. As the administrative heart of Saudi Arabia, the disruptions here have impacted a high concentration of diplomatic and corporate itineraries.

AirlineCancellations % CancellationsDelays% Delays
Saudia259%259%
Emirates8100%00%
IndiGo8100%00%
Gulf Air787%112%
FlyDubai660%220%
Etihad Airways675%00%
Flynas53%2817%
Egypt Air350%00%
flyadeal21%1311%
Philippine Air Lines2100%00%
Pegasus Airlines2100%00%
KLM2100%00%
Air France2100%00%
China Eastern1100%00%
Qatar Airways17%00%
Pakistan International Airlines150%150%
SriLankan Airlines150%00%
Air India125%00%
Cathay Pacific150%00%
MEA00%375%
Air Cairo00%150%
Oman Air00%583%
SalamAir00%150%
Royal Jordanian00%350%
British Airways00%2100%
Air China00%2200%
China Southern Airlines00%125%
Ethiopian Airlines00%150%

Further east, King Fahd International in Dammam has seen 64 flights cancelled and 71 delayed.

AirlineCancellations % CancellationsDelays % Delays
Saudia1430%1021%
IndiGo10100%00%
Etihad Airways8100%00%
Emirates6100%00%
Gulf Air583%116%
FlyDubai4100%00%
Egypt Air337%337%
Pakistan International Airlines375%125%
KLM2100%00%
Oman Air2100%00%
Air India2100%00%
Pegasus Airlines2100%00%
Flynas11%3040%
SriLankan Airlines150%00%
Air Arabia Egypt150%00%
Fly Jinnah00%150%
Nesma Airlines Egypt00%133%
flyadeal00%2047%
SalamAir00%1100%
Royal Jordanian00%375%

Meanwhile, the Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah has reported 21 cancellations and 41 delays. While the numbers in Madinah are lower in comparison to Jeddah, the impact remains severe for those traveling for religious purposes.

AirlineCancellations % CancellationsDelays % Delays
Emirates4100%00%
IndiGo4100%00%
FlyDubai4100%00%
Pegasus Airlines2100%00%
Etihad Airways266%00%
Wizz Air UK2100%00%
Gulf Air250%125%
Malaysia Airlines1100%00%
Garuda Indonesia00%1100%
flyadeal00%418%
Kuwait Airways Corporation00%1100%
Flynas00%1133%
Air Astana00%150%
Mauritania00%2100%
Air Arabia00%125%
Air Cairo00%125%
Egypt Air00%111%
Oman Air00%4100%
Fly OYA00%133%
Pakistan International Airlines00%480%
Qatar Airways00%116%
Royal Jordanian00%116%
Saudia00%26%
Turkish Airlines00%430%

Impacted Airlines

The aviation sector in Saudi Arabia is currently navigating a complex logistical landscape. Saudia, the national flag carrier, has had to manage a vast number of these disruptions, particularly at its hubs in Jeddah and Riyadh. Regional partners such as Gulf Air, FlyDubai and Etihad Airways have also been heavily impacted, as their standard flight corridors often intersect with the now-restricted airspaces.

Low-cost carriers and other international airlines have not been spared. The sudden nature of the airspace closures meant that many aircraft were either grounded at their points of origin or diverted to alternative landing sites outside the immediate conflict zone. This has created a “domino effect,” where a single cancellation in Dammam or Madinah leads to crew shortages and scheduling conflicts across entire networks.

Probable Impact on Local Tourism

The ongoing crisis is expected to have a noticeable effect on the local tourism sectors of the involved cities. Saudi Arabia has been aggressively promoting its Vision 2030 goals, aiming to become a global tourism powerhouse. However, widespread disruptions in Riyadh and Jeddah—the two most visited cities for business and leisure—may lead to a temporary decline in international arrivals.

In Madinah and Jeddah, the impact on religious tourism is of particular concern. Many pilgrims rely on tight schedules to perform their rituals and the 279 cancellations recorded today represent a significant hurdle for those currently in transit. While the holy sites remain open and operational, the difficulty in reaching them may deter short-term visitors.

Furthermore, the hospitality and retail sectors in Dammam and other transit points may experience a short-term surge in demand for emergency accommodation, followed by a potential slump as future bookings are reconsidered by cautious travellers.

What Affected Passengers Can Do Now

For those caught in this travel crisis, the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) in Saudi Arabia provides a clear framework of passenger rights. Under the updated GACA regulations, airlines are required to provide care and support during extended delays and cancellations, even those caused by extraordinary circumstances such as safety and security threats.

  • Communication: Passengers should stay in constant contact with their airlines. In Riyadh and Jeddah, airport authorities have advised travellers to check their flight status digitally before heading to the terminal.
  • Care and Refreshments: If a delay exceeds three hours, passengers are typically entitled to refreshments and meals. If an overnight stay is required due to a cancellation in Dammam or Madinah, airlines are generally obligated to provide hotel accommodation and transport.
  • Refunds and Rebooking: According to GACA guidelines, if a flight is delayed for more than two hours, passengers have the right to request a full refund of the ticket price without any deductions. If the delay exceeds five hours, the flight can be treated as cancelled, allowing for further compensation claims or alternative routing.
  • Documentation: It is vital for travellers to keep all boarding passes, receipts for out-of-pocket expenses and written communications from the airline. These will be necessary should a formal complaint be filed with GACA after the situation stabilises.

As the situation continues to evolve, the primary focus of all aviation authorities within Saudi Arabia remains the safety of the travelling public.

-Flight information provided is sourced from FlightAware.

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Yesterday — 28 February 2026Main stream

Iowa Based Hotel Development and Management Company Kinseth Hospitality Companies Promotes Matthew Robinson with Extensive Experience as the New Corporate Food and Beverage Director

28 February 2026 at 21:04
Iowa Based Hotel Development and Management Company Kinseth Hospitality Companies Promotes Matthew Robinson with Extensive Experience as the New Corporate Food and Beverage Director

Kinseth Hospitality Companies (KHC), a prominent hotel development and management firm based in Coralville, Iowa, has recently appointed Matthew Robinson as its new Corporate Food and Beverage Director. Robinson, who has been with KHC since 2014, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role, further enhancing the company’s reputation for high-quality service in the hospitality industry.

A Journey of Dedication and Growth at Kinseth Hospitality Companies

Matthew Robinson’s journey with Kinseth Hospitality Companies began in 2014 when he joined as a chef at the Green Mill in Wichita, Kansas. His passion for the culinary arts, combined with his strong work ethic, quickly earned him a promotion to food and beverage manager after just one year. Robinson’s ability to manage the operations of a busy kitchen and his commitment to quality service were immediately recognised, paving the way for further opportunities within KHC.

After gaining two years of experience in the role of food and beverage manager, Robinson transitioned to a broader position within the company as a travel manager. This role had a specific focus on food and beverage, allowing him to take on responsibilities that extended beyond the kitchen. This transition marked the beginning of his leadership trajectory with KHC, as he gained a unique understanding of the broader operations within the hospitality industry.

Over the next six years, Robinson’s experience continued to expand as he took on the role of a travelling general manager. In this capacity, Robinson worked across multiple hotel brands, ensuring seamless operations and delivering high-quality service to guests. His ability to manage diverse teams and maintain consistency across various properties showcased his skills in leadership and hospitality management.

Leadership and Excellence in Hotel Management

In 2021, Matthew Robinson was appointed as the general manager of the Courtyard by Marriott in Houma, Louisiana. This was another pivotal moment in his career, where he continued to demonstrate his commitment to excellence and effective team management. Robinson’s ability to integrate his culinary expertise with hotel management allowed him to elevate the guest experience, ensuring that both the food and overall hotel operations met the highest standards.

Robinson’s leadership style is rooted in his hands-on experience in both the culinary and hotel sectors. This combination of skills has made him a well-rounded leader with a unique perspective on hospitality. His understanding of all aspects of hotel management, from the kitchen to guest services, will undoubtedly be a valuable asset in his new role as corporate food and beverage director for Kinseth Hospitality Companies.

A Strong Foundation in Hospitality

Before joining Kinseth Hospitality Companies, Matthew Robinson had already amassed a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry. He spent 14 years with Marriott International, where he honed his skills as a chef. Robinson’s tenure at Marriott was instrumental in developing his expertise in high-volume food service operations, providing him with the technical and managerial experience required to thrive in the fast-paced hospitality environment.

In addition to his time with Marriott, Robinson also ventured into entrepreneurship by opening his own establishment. This entrepreneurial experience further enriched his skill set, allowing him to understand the complexities of running a hospitality business from a different perspective. This experience is expected to complement his new role at Kinseth Hospitality Companies, where he will oversee the company’s food and beverage operations on a corporate level.

With over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Matthew Robinson’s promotion to corporate food and beverage director at Kinseth Hospitality Companies is a natural progression. His diverse background in culinary arts, hotel management and entrepreneurship makes him an ideal leader to continue driving the company’s food and beverage operations forward.

Image- kinseth.com

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Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Welcomes Duncan Bond with Extensive Hospitality Experience as the New Hotel Manager

28 February 2026 at 02:30
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Welcomes Duncan Bond with Extensive Hospitality Experience as the New Hotel Manager

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island has appointed Duncan Bond as its new Hotel Manager, ushering in a fresh era of leadership and innovation at one of the Maldives’ most iconic resorts. With over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Duncan is set to bring his vast expertise to the resort, ensuring the continued excellence that guests have come to expect. His leadership style, combined with a commitment to authenticity and cultural respect, positions him perfectly to enhance the guest experience at this luxurious property.

A Wealth of Experience in Global Hospitality

Duncan Bond’s extensive career in the hospitality industry spans multiple continents, including Europe and the Africa-Indian Ocean region. His vast operational experience has been honed through senior leadership roles with renowned hotel chains such as Hilton and IHG. Notably, he has served as the Director of Operations at Hilton The Hague and as Operations Manager at Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa. Duncan’s most recent role was as the General Manager of Hotel Indigo The Hague Noordeinde Palace, where he successfully led large-scale renovations, repositioned luxury resorts and introduced innovative dining and bar concepts.

Throughout his career, Duncan has been at the forefront of strategic initiatives that have enhanced the brands he’s worked with. His focus has always been on strengthening brand identity while maintaining a competitive edge in the market, particularly in the luxury sector. At Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, Duncan is expected to bring the same level of professionalism and strategic thinking, ensuring that the resort remains a top-tier destination for luxury travellers.

A Focus on Authenticity and Contemporary Luxury

Duncan Bond’s philosophy of luxury is grounded in creating authentic, personal and effortless experiences for guests. In a world where traditional luxury has often been associated with excess, Duncan believes that contemporary luxury is defined by meaningful experiences that foster a deeper connection to the destination. According to Duncan, modern travellers no longer seek out mere indulgence, but rather look for experiences that allow them to immerse themselves in the essence of a place.

This philosophy is aligned with the core values of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, which has long been known for its ability to create emotional connections with its guests. Duncan aims to build on the resort’s strong legacy of fostering these connections, while also ensuring that each guest experience is unique and unforgettable. With the resort’s stunning marine-rich setting and its history of pioneering initiatives, Duncan’s vision will continue to elevate Conrad Maldives Rangali Island as a leader in luxury hospitality.

Embracing Diversity and People-Centric Leadership

One of Duncan Bond’s defining qualities is his deep appreciation for people and culture. Born in the Netherlands with Moluccan and British heritage, Duncan’s leadership style is heavily influenced by his multicultural background. His Moluccan heritage, in particular, has instilled in him a profound respect for the cultural elements that shape communities, such as food, art and family. These values have greatly influenced his approach to hospitality, where he strives to infuse connection into every touchpoint, whether with guests or team members.

Duncan’s curiosity about people is what truly sets him apart as a leader. He is inspired by individuals who embrace their cultural identity, share their personal stories and bring their authentic selves into every interaction. This authenticity, Duncan believes, is the key to creating emotional luxury and it is this type of luxury that keeps guests coming back time after time. At Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, Duncan’s people-centric leadership is sure to strengthen the relationship between the resort and its guests, making each stay a memorable and meaningful experience.

Duncan’s appointment as Hotel Manager at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island marks a new chapter for the resort, one that is grounded in authenticity, cultural appreciation and unparalleled guest experiences. With his extensive hospitality experience and forward-thinking approach, Duncan is poised to lead the resort into the future, ensuring that it continues to be a world-class destination for luxury travellers from around the globe.

The post Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Welcomes Duncan Bond with Extensive Hospitality Experience as the New Hotel Manager appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Passengers in Canada Face Travel Interference as Kelowna International Airport Experience 19 Delays and 8 Flight Cancellations, Impacting WestJet Encore, Pacific Coastal Airlines, Central Mountain Air and others, New Update

28 February 2026 at 01:11
Passengers in Canada Face Travel Interference as Kelowna International Airport Experience 19 Delays and 8 Flight Cancellations, Impacting WestJet Encore, Pacific Coastal Airlines, Central Mountain Air and others, New Update

Air travel in Canada faced a sudden hurdle today as operations at Kelowna International Airport slowed to a crawl. Passengers experienced a wave of disruptions that left many stranded within the terminal. Data confirms that 8 flights were cancelled entirely, while another 19 suffered significant delays. WestJet Encore emerged as the most affected carrier struggling with these scheduling shifts, reporting a high volume of interrupted trips. This surge in interference created a ripple effect throughout the regional travel network. Highlighting a challenging day for the aviation sector in British Columbia. Short-haul routes were particularly vulnerable to these timing changes. As the situation developed, several other airlines also reported minor setbacks.

Major Airport Affected

Kelowna International Airport, a primary gateway for the Okanagan Valley, has been identified as the site of considerable operational strain today. As a central node for both domestic and regional travel, any interruption at this facility often results in a significant backlog for the national aviation infrastructure. Today, the facility has seen 8 total cancellations, while 19 flights were officially marked as delayed. For many passengers in Canada, Kelowna serves as a critical connection point, meaning these disruptions likely extend beyond the immediate region. The efficiency of the airport’s response is currently being tested as the high volume of delayed flights necessitates careful gate management and resource allocation.

Impacted Airlines

The data indicates that WestJet Encore and Pacific Coastal Airlines have been the most heavily impacted by today’s operational hurdles. WestJet Encore recorded 6 cancellations, representing a 15% cancellation rate for the carrier. Furthermore, 11 of their flights were delayed, resulting in a 28% delay rate. These figures suggest that a substantial portion of the regional travel network serviced by WestJet Encore has been compromised. Similarly, Pacific Coastal Airlines reported 2 cancellations, equating to a 14% cancellation rate. They also experienced 1 delay, reflecting a 7% delay rate for their daily schedule.

Beyond these specific figures, several other carriers were noted to be experiencing delays. These include Jazz Aviation with 2 delays, Air Canada Rouge with 2 delays and single delays recorded for Central Mountain Air, Porter Airlines and WestJet. The breadth of the affected airlines highlights the widespread nature of the interference currently being managed at Kelowna International Airport.

Probable Impact on Local Tourism

Given the status of Kelowna as a premier destination within Canada, the delays and cancellations might have a tangible impact on local tourism. Visitors arriving for scheduled tours, hotel stays and regional events are often reliant on the punctuality of regional air travel. When a high volume of flights is cancelled or delayed, the local hospitality sector frequently experiences secondary effects, such as late check-ins or the cancellation of local bookings.

In Kelowna, where the tourism economy is a vital component of the local infrastructure, the arrival of passengers is essential for the continued vibrancy of the region. The disruption of 27 total flights in a single day represents a notable percentage of the expected footfall. Consequently, local businesses may observe a temporary shift in patronage as travellers are diverted or delayed in their arrival to the city.

What Affected Passengers Can Do Now

For those currently navigating the interference at Kelowna International Airport, several steps are recommended to manage the situation effectively. Passengers are advised to remain in close contact with their respective airlines, as WestJet Encore, Pacific Coastal Airlines and the various other carriers involved are responsible for providing real-time updates regarding rescheduled departures.

It is suggested that the status of flights be monitored via official mobile applications or the airport’s digital flight boards. In cases of significant delays, passengers are often encouraged to familiarise themselves with their rights under the Air Passenger Protection Regulations in Canada. Those whose travel plans have been cancelled should seek information regarding rebooking options or potential refunds directly from the carrier’s service desk. Maintaining documented records of all communications and delays is considered a prudent measure for any passenger currently experiencing these disruptions in Kelowna.

-The information provided is sourced from FlightAware.

The post Passengers in Canada Face Travel Interference as Kelowna International Airport Experience 19 Delays and 8 Flight Cancellations, Impacting WestJet Encore, Pacific Coastal Airlines, Central Mountain Air and others, New Update appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Before yesterdayMain stream

The Anguilla Tourist Board Welcomes Kendisha Hall-Prentice with Extensive Tourism Marketing and Hospitality Experience as the New Chief Marketing Officer

27 February 2026 at 20:15
The Anguilla Tourist Board Welcomes Kendisha Hall-Prentice with Extensive Tourism Marketing and Hospitality Experience as the New Chief Marketing Officer

The Anguilla Tourist Board (ATB) has announced the appointment of Kendisha Hall-Prentice as its new Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). This significant milestone marks the first time that an Anguillian has been appointed to this high-ranking role at the ATB. With a wealth of experience spanning hospitality, tourism marketing, destination management and entrepreneurship, Hall-Prentice’s appointment is seen as a pivotal step in the island’s tourism growth.

A Historic Appointment for Anguilla

Kendisha Hall-Prentice’s appointment as the CMO of the Anguilla Tourist Board is a historic moment for the island. Not only does it signal a breakthrough in the leadership structure of the ATB, but it also underscores the organisation’s commitment to empowering local talent. The announcement was welcomed by Cardigan Conor, the Minister of Health, Tourism and Sports, who remarked that this achievement represents a proud moment for the people of Anguilla.

As the first Anguillian to take up the position of CMO, Hall-Prentice brings an impressive set of skills and a deep understanding of both the local culture and international tourism trends. Her extensive background in hospitality education and industry partnerships will undoubtedly help elevate Anguilla’s global standing as a leading Caribbean destination.

Experience in Tourism Marketing and Stakeholder Engagement

With years of experience in the tourism sector, Kendisha Hall-Prentice has a proven track record in destination marketing and promotions. Her expertise encompasses brand development, stakeholder engagement and advancing business development initiatives. This experience will prove invaluable as she leads the Anguilla Tourist Board in its mission to position the island as a must-visit destination in the Caribbean.

Hall-Prentice has also been instrumental in working alongside tourism stakeholders to elevate service standards across the island. By collaborating with key industry partners, she has helped to strengthen Anguilla’s reputation for excellence in hospitality, an essential factor in attracting high-value visitors. The CMO role will allow her to continue these efforts, ensuring that Anguilla remains competitive in an increasingly dynamic tourism marketplace.

Her work within the hospitality sector has also given her a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing Caribbean destinations. Hall-Prentice has been a driving force in advancing the local tourism infrastructure, fostering relationships that encourage sustainable tourism practices and community development.

Hall-Prentice’s Vision for Anguilla’s Future

In her new role as CMO, Kendisha Hall-Prentice has expressed her dedication to driving Anguilla’s global brand forward. She has highlighted her excitement about working with the ATB’s partners and stakeholders to enhance the island’s reputation on the international stage. Her vision is to elevate demand for Anguilla’s tourism offerings and ensure that the island is firmly positioned as the number one destination in the Caribbean.

Hall-Prentice’s appointment brings fresh energy to the Anguilla Tourist Board’s ongoing efforts to attract a diverse range of visitors. Through strategic marketing initiatives and collaborations, she aims to showcase Anguilla’s unique offerings, from its pristine beaches to its high-end hospitality and rich cultural heritage.

The focus will also be on creating long-term, sustainable tourism strategies that benefit the local community and preserve the island’s natural beauty. With her extensive experience in both hospitality and tourism marketing, Hall-Prentice is well-equipped to guide the ATB towards these ambitious goals.

Conclusion

Kendisha Hall-Prentice’s appointment as the new Chief Marketing Officer of the Anguilla Tourist Board marks a pivotal moment in the island’s tourism industry. With her extensive experience in hospitality and tourism marketing, she is set to make a lasting impact on the island’s tourism development. Her leadership promises to drive Anguilla’s global brand forward, helping to solidify the island’s place as a top Caribbean destination. As the first Anguillian to hold this prestigious position, her vision for sustainable tourism growth and community engagement is expected to drive long-term benefits for both the tourism sector and the local population. With Hall-Prentice at the helm, Anguilla is poised for a new era of growth and prominence within the global tourism market.

The post The Anguilla Tourist Board Welcomes Kendisha Hall-Prentice with Extensive Tourism Marketing and Hospitality Experience as the New Chief Marketing Officer appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
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