One month after initial reports of plummeting bookings amid the 2026 Middle East War, French travelers continue delaying summer vacations—even domestic trips—due to the Iran conflict since February 28. Industry leaders report adaptations like destination swaps amid rising fares and cancellation fears.
Building on April reports of collapsing overseas bookings and stagnant domestic demand, the crisis deepens as summer nears. 'The crisis began with customers' fear of being unable to return home due to the war in Iran. Air traffic was blocked for forty-eight hours in the Persian Gulf,' recalls Valérie Boned, president of Les Entreprises du Voyage, representing 80% of French travel agencies and operators like Selectour, Havas Voyages, TUI, Club Med, MisterFly, and Expedia.
Professionals swiftly repatriated clients during early disruptions. Now, to combat fuel-driven price hikes from the Middle East conflict, companies are offering flexible destination changes and payment plans to mitigate cancellations and spur bookings despite widespread hesitation.
