Flight Disruptions?

There’s a quiet tension that seems to sit in the background when travel plans meet global uncertainty. You’ve packed, planned, committed… and yet there’s that lingering question: will everything go as expected? For many heading to Europe right now, especially via the Middle East, that uncertainty feels very real. Routes change, last minute decisions and flexibility become part of the journey itself. Here’s what just unfolded for us, and a few grounded takeaways that might help others navigating the same situation.

Our current experience:

We were due to travel to Milan for Design Week and flying with Qantas via Dubai. Rather than rushing into changes, we stayed put and waited for official communication. A few days ago, confirmation came through: our Sydney–Dubai–Milan route had been cancelled for safety reasons.

When we called, we were offered two kind options: a full refund or a flight credit with no fees.

However, with work commitments already locked in across Milan and London, cancelling wasn’t really an option. To their credit, Qantas proposed an alternative route: Sydney → San Francisco → London → Milan

Yes, it’s a longer journey, and there was a small fare difference to pay. But importantly, it allowed us to continue with our plans. So, yes we’re still going, and this is what we've learnt:

1. Wait for official updates before reacting - It’s tempting to jump online and change everything at the first sign of disruption, but this can be a costly move. In many cases, airlines will offer better options once routes are formally adjusted.

2. Book directly where possible - If you’ve booked through the airline, conversations are simpler and solutions often more flexible.

3. Be open to alternative routes - The most direct path isn’t always available. Going alternative ways might add hours, but it can keep your plans intact.

4. Allow extra travel time - Connections may be tighter or more complex. Build in breathing room where you can.

5. Travel insurance is not optional right now - Make sure it covers disruptions, delays, and route changes. It’s one of those things you hope you never need… until you do.

6. Keep perspective - Safety decisions are made for a reason. While inconvenient, they are ultimately there to protect everyone travelling, so try to go with it and keep smiling :)

So the good news is that we’re still going. And if you are too, we hope to bump into you there, but if your plans have changed, or you simply want to stay across what’s happening at Salone del Mobile, we’ll be sharing daily updates straight from Milan. Expect a close look at what’s emerging across furnishings, kitchens and bathrooms, with a clear eye on what will translate beautifully into our homes here in Australia.

And for a little extra fun, there will be a chance to win a special gift we’ll bring back from the fair. You can follow along on Instagram and Facebook for more info and all the daily reports.

James Treble is an ambassador for Planet Ark and firmly believes in sensible purchasing, recycling and creative re-purposing. James has three decades of accumulated experience in the Building Industry, Real Estate and Interior Design and regularly shares his knowledge and experience in adding value to properties through effective design & styling. Watch his free videos on YouTube, and follow him on Facebook and Instagram for more free information. Learn more from James' knowledge via his FREE online shows James Bought A House (a renovation) and James Bought A Guest House (a brand new build).