Dubai Civil Aviation Authority has issued a strong advisory to travelers ahead of peak travel seasons, emphasizing the critical importance of understanding all travel details before booking, as Saud Abdulaziz Kankzar, Executive Director of Air Transport and International Affairs, highlighted the need to review airline and travel agency policies and obtain comprehensive travel insurance to safeguard against unexpected disruptions.

Kankzar urged passengers to document any issues immediately and maintain official communication with airlines or travel agencies, while preserving all correspondence as supporting evidence, in addition to carefully reviewing all terms and conditions, particularly those related to ticket cancellation or modification, to ensure clarity on rights and obligations from the outset.

He also stressed the importance of identifying the operating airline, especially in cases involving codeshare agreements, alongside reviewing all applicable fees including taxes and additional charges, understanding baggage allowances, and ensuring accurate contact details for airlines or booking offices, while clearly communicating any special assistance needs for elderly passengers or people of determination.

Kankzar clarified that airline obligations remain consistent regardless of the consequences of flight delays, even if they result in missed connections or important commitments, as airlines are required to inform passengers of the delay details and available options, including rebooking, rerouting when feasible, or refunding the unused portion of the ticket, in addition to providing appropriate care when applicable.

He concluded by noting that differences in passenger rights between full-service and low-cost airlines are determined by the terms and conditions agreed upon at the time of booking, underscoring the responsibility of airlines to clearly communicate these terms to ensure transparency and informed decision-making.