In light of the conflict situation in Iran, Finnair along with several other airlines has suspended flights to Qatar and the United Arab Emirates until the end of March, impacting Finnish passengers who find themselves stranded amid these cancellations. The Consumer Association of Finland emphasizes that customers are generally entitled to evacuation from these regions at no cost, provided by their airline or travel agency, due to a duty of care owed to the passengers.

Juha Beurling-Pomoell, Secretary-General of the Consumer Association, urges travelers who are affected by these disruptions to first reach out to their airline or travel agency for guidance on crisis management. The Association also highlights that any additional expenses incurred, such as for hotels or food, can typically be claimed back later, but warns that passengers should refrain from making independent travel arrangements without consulting their airline first, as this could jeopardize their entitlement to compensation.

The advice from the Consumer Association underlines the importance of maintaining communication with airlines during such crises. Taking independent actions without guidance might lead to travelers having to pay out of pocket for their arrangements, potentially nullifying their rights to compensation and support from their carriers as they navigate this unexpected upheaval in their travel plans.