Global Reach | Now Boarding Blog | Services | ATG

Travelers are urged to use caution as well as prepare for travel delays in many parts of the world:

EASTERN EUROPE - Significant disruptions to overland travel are expected to continue being reported at key transport hubs and border crossings in several Eastern European states due to ongoing elevated levels of human migration. To date, the most significant disruptions have been experienced in Hungary, Austria, Czech Republic and Macedonia; however, disruptions have also been reported in Slovakia, Greece, Bulgaria and Serbia. In Hungary, disruptions have centred on train stations offering international rail services, including Budapest's Keleti station and the Bicske train station, west of Budapest, as well as at the Roszke train station on the country's eastern border with Serbia, on 4 September. Road routes westward to Austria have also experienced significant disruptions due to increased security and border checks by Austrian authorities at border posts near the Hungarian towns of Hegyeshalom and Rajka. In Macedonia, a large number of security force personnel remain deployed to the country's southern border crossing with Greece, near Gevgelija, and the northern border crossing with Serbia, near Kumanovo, since 21 August; the increased security measures have resulted in moderate travel delays. Elevated security levels are also expected to result in travel delays on the Czech Republic's southern border with Austria, including in Breclav, in the coming days. Furthermore, disruptions in other Eastern European states may increase as the most heavily impacted states increase border controls and security measures to deal with the situation. Tens of thousands of asylum seekers from conflict-affected states in North Africa, the Middle East and Asia have travelled into and through Eastern Europe. Local authorities across the region have struggled to cope with the unprecedented immigration, and several states have taken or are taking steps to secure their borders. A continuation of this trend is anticipated and further disruptions to international rail services should be anticipated in the region. Furthermore, disruptions at numerous border crossings in the region are expected to persist over the near-term. The status of border crossings should be checked prior to departure. Itineraries should also be adjusted to accommodate potential delays and disruptions. Travellers intending to utilise international rail services are advised to contact their travel provider or the relevant transport authority for an update on the current status of services prior to departure. (Further information on Europe's migrant crisis can be found here: https://www.red24.com/members/indepth/Europe_migrant_crisis.php#)

ITALY(BARI, MILAN & VENICE) - Unionised airport personnel in Italy are set to embark on several strike actions in Bari, Milan and Venice on 6 September. In Bari, unionised employees of Aeroporti di Puglia SpA are set to launch a work stoppage from 12:00 to 16:00 (local time) at the city's Bari Karol Wojtyla Airport. In Milan, ATA Italia staff will be striking from 10:00 to 14:00 at the Milan Linate and Milan-Malpensa airports. Finally, unionised ground handling staff employed by Aviapartner are expected to stage a work stoppage from 10:00 to 14:00 at airports in Venice, including Venice Marco Polo Airport. Italy's aviation sector is regularly affected by strike actions. These are generally organised in response to austerity and deregulation reforms implemented by the government, as well as specific labour disputes. Although affected airports are likely to implement contingency plans to minimise the effect of the upcoming work stoppages, flight disruptions should nevertheless be anticipated. In addition, an increased demand for alternative transport options should be expected on aforementioned strike periods. Clients intending to transit the aforementioned cities on 6 September are advised to contact their airline or travel provider to confirm the status of their flight(s).

ATG is monitoring this event and will advise if any passengers may be affected.

AUSTRALIA(MELBOURNE) - Melbourne will be hit by another train strike tomorrow - from 2am to 6am - following today's first strike in 18 years. Public transport workers are also being urged to continue their campaign with more stop work industrial action including a controversial strike during the AFL finals. The new industrial action will involve all 66 services before 6am and four late-night services between 1am and 2am, a Metro Trains spokeswoman said. Train services usually start about 4.30am on Saturdays. Metro Trains revealed the new industrial action as today's four-hour rail strike ended. Melbourne's grounded fleet resumed with a 2.39pm Hurstbridge train the first of the 16 lines to resume. The strike did not cause the traffic mayhem and crippling of transport networks as feared, withfreeways running smoothly this morning thanks to Melburnians either staying home or going to work early as the strike kicked in. There was heavy disruption to CBD trams and traffic caused by train drivers rallying outside the Victorian Trades Hall in Carlton at 11.30am before marching to Flinders St station. Union bosses talked tough at a rally, including CFMEU's John Setka telling workers: "It's the finals time soon, what a wonderful time to have some industrial action." He added: "Metro has already lost, they just don't know it yet." Lord Mayor Robert Doyle told 3AW that today's disruption could end cost the city as much as the heatwave did earlier this year, estimated at $10 million. Rail, Tram and Bus Union representative Joe Maisano warned strikes would continue until workers were treated fairly. "We are only standing up for our rights. This strike is not about a pay rise, it is about our conditions," he said. State Secretary Luba Grigorovitch, speaking during today's rally, told workers to not roll over. "Metro thought if they offered you a little more money and you would just roll over and you would let them strip away your conditions," she added. Metro chief executive Andrew Lezala said the union was holding on to "archaic" conditions and was holding Melbourne back from becoming a modern transport network.

SPAIN(PALMA DE MALLORCA AIRPORT) - Heavy rain and thunderstorms have resulted in disruptions to flight services at Palma de Mallorca Airport, in eponymous regional capital of Spain's Balearic Islands, on 4 September. International and domestic arrivals have reportedly been diverted to other nearby airports, and departing flights have been suspended or delayed as airport authorities wait for weather conditions to improve. Operations at the airport will likely continue to be affected for the near-term. Should conditions improve, but further delays should be anticipated due to the resultant backlog of flights. Clients intending to transit through Palma de Mallorca Airport in the next 24 hours are advised to contact their airline or travel provider to confirm the status of their flight(s).

Our records indicate your company does not have any travelers scheduled to fly through Palma de Mallorca Airport September 4 who were ticketed through ATG.

CANADA(ONTARIO) - The Meteorological Service of Canada has issued a thunderstorm warning for various areas in Canada's Ontario province, on 4 September. Adverse weather conditions, including strong winds, hail and heavy rain, are expected in the following areas; Pikangikum, Poplar Hill, MacDowell, North Spirit Lake and Deer Lake. The weather warning is expected to remain in place for 24 hours. Canada is prone to thunderstorms and tornados between the months of May and September. Southern Ontario, Alberta, south eastern Quebec, and the area stretching from southern Saskatchewan and Manitoba through to Thunder Bay, are usually the worst-affected areas. Furthermore, adverse weather conditions often result in damage to property, the loosening of objects, the breaking off of tree branches and the overturn of large vehicles. As such, areas affected by falling debris and low-lying, flood-prone areas, such as rivers and canals, can pose a safety hazard. Clients in Ontario should ensure that itineraries are kept flexible to accommodate disruptions to travel, utility and business services caused by the adverse weather conditions. Furthermore, persons in the affected areas are advised to avoid low-lying, flood-prone areas, and should closely monitor and adhere to local media for advisories, possible flood warnings and emergency broadcasts.

INDONESIA(SUMATRA & RIAU ISLANDS) - Haze, caused by land and forest fires in Sumatra, north western Indonesia, has resulted in poor air quality and associated air and sea traffic disruptions. Sultan Thaha Airport serving Jambi (Jambi Province) was temporarily closed on 3 September. Ferry services in the nearby West Tanjung Jabung area were also suspended. Further north west, the Sultan Syarif Kasim II International Airport serving Pekanbaru (Riau Province) reported several disruptions on 3 September. In the Riau Islands Province, located off the Sumatra north east coast, several flight disruptions were reported on 3 September. Local officials have also stated that at least 35 flights have been cancelled at the airport in recent days. Forest fires, partly caused by land clearance operations, are regularly reported in Sumatra and Kalimantan between May and September. The resultant haze frequently results in disruptions to air and sea travel and a worsening of the air quality across much of Indonesia and nearby states. The disruption on Sumatra and nearby areas is likely to persist over the coming weeks. Clients travelling by air and sea in or to Indonesia over the near-term should regularly reconfirm the status of their flight(s) or ferry service(s) with their travel provider of the relevant local transport authority prior to departure.

THAILAND(BANGKOK) - Significant road travel disruptions, as a result of torrential rainfall and resultant flooding, were reported in Thailand's capital, Bangkok, on 3 September. The Don Muang, Vibhavadi, Bang Khen and Ram Intra areas have been worst-affected, with reports of severe disruptions to road-based travel. Bangkok is expected to experience isolated thunderstorms and heavy rain until 5 September. Although there have been no reports of disruptions to scheduled flights at Suvarnabhumi International Airport, roads in its immediate vicinity have become waterlogged. Thailand's south west monsoon season, which generally occurs from mid-May to September, is characterised by warm, cloudy weather with bouts of heavy rainfall. Further disruptions to road-based travel should be anticipated for the near-term. The recent heavy seasonal rains have likely resulted in saturated ground conditions, which may exacerbate the risk of flooding in other parts of Bangkok. Clients currently in Bangkok are advised to monitor local developments and make provisions for longer travelling time between destinations, in affected areas of Bangkok.

TAJIKISTAN(DUSHANBE) - At least six people have been killed as a result of a gunfight between unidentified gunmen and security forces in Tajikistan's capital, Dushanbe, on 4 September. The gunfight reportedly took place near the Dushanbe international Airport. Police are said to have erected roadblocks and cordoned off the affected areas in an attempt to apprehend the perpetrators. Unconfirmed reports state that authorities have identified one of the suspects as a former defence ministry employee affiliated with an opposition party; however, no arrests have been made and the motivation behind the attack remains unknown. Further information is currently unavailable. While responsibility for the attack is yet to be claimed, local media sources have alleged that the incident may have been in response to the apprehension and beating of Umar Bobojonov, who remains in critical condition, on 4 September. It has been alleged by the victim's family that he was arrested for his beard and outwardly Islamic appearance. The Tajik government has been criticised for numerous anti-Islamic policies and restrictions on Muslim religious expression in recent months. While the motivation and whereabouts of the assailants remain unclear, further armed attacks cannot be discounted. In light of the aforementioned incident, increased security can be expected around the affected area, which may lead to travel delays. Persons in the affected area are advised to exercise heightened security awareness and adhere to all directives issued by the local authorities. Clients conducting travel in the affected area, particularly to and from the airport, should anticipate travel delays and are advised to plan accordingly.

ARMENIA(TAVUSH PROVINCE) - (Correction) Casualties have been reported following several days of heavy exchanges of gunfire and shelling in border areas of Armenia's north eastern Tavush province. According to reports on 4 September, at least one Armenian soldier has been killed and three civilians wounded as a result of cross-border shelling from neighbouring Azerbaijan. While clashes are said to have subsided on 3 September, tensions remain elevated in the region. Tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan remain high amid an ongoing territorial dispute which is principally centred on the ownership and administration of the Armenian-populated enclave of Nagorno-Karabakh, located within the territory of neighbouring Azerbaijan. Although much of the violence between Armenia and Azerbaijan occurs within the Nagorno-Karabakh region, bilateral tensions have manifested in acts of cross-border violence in other areas. In this regard, Armenia's north eastern border regions have emerged as a focal point for such violence. Due to an elevated threat of conflict and associated insecurity, all non-essential travel along areas located within 10km of Armenia's shared border with Azerbaijan is advised against. Clients intending to travel to the shared border area despite this advisory should ensure that their itineraries are authorised by local authorities and should coordinate all movements in the presence of local security.

ISRAEL(HEBRON) - A private car transporting five US nationals was attacked by residents of Jabal Johar in Hebron, in the West Bank, on 3 September. The five US Jewish students were in the West Bank for recreational purposes and were intending to travel to the Cave of the Patriarchs; however, the students took a wrong turn, leading them into the Palestinian area, where they were attacked with stones and at least one fire bomb. Two of the students sustained minor injuries. The incident underscores the elevated risks of operating in the West Bank. Hebron is particularly insecure as the city includes various Palestinian and Jewish settler zones. Entry into Palestinian areas, particularly if driving a vehicle with Israeli registration plates, increases the risk of being attacked. Clients are advised against all non-essential travel to the West Bank. Persons operating in the territory should remain on main roads, travel during the day, avoid Palestinian refugee camps and consider travelling with a local escort or trained security driver who is familiar with the local security environment.

INDIA(MANIPUR STATE) - The United Naga Council (UNC) are expected to embark on a 48-hour general strike in India's Manipur state from 00:00 local time, on 4 September. A transport route blockade on the state's national highway is expected to accompany the strike action. The strike has been called in response to the passing of three bills, which have been deemed anti-tribal in nature, in the state assembly. The Thadou People's Liberation Army (TPLA) and several other civil society groups have declared the blockade of the state highways for an indefinite duration, in solidarity with the aforementioned strike. The UNC is a political grouping representing the interests of the ethnic Naga people. The grouping generally calls for strikes protesting against the perceived inaction of the central government in addressing Naga demands for greater local autonomy in the administration of majority-Naga areas of Manipur. More specifically, the Protection of Manipur People's Bill, the Manipur Land Revenues Bill and the Manipur Shop and Establishment Bill have been widely condemned by political groups representing ethnic populations in Manipur, due to the perceived economic and socially repressive policies therein. Participants in the strike and associated blockade have warned of the potential for violent confrontations with any parties attempting to contravene the strike and blockade. As such, the possibility of violent skirmishes and unrest is considered elevated. The strike and associated blockade are likely to result in disruptions to business and transport across the state, particularly in light of the highway blockades. Clients in Manipur are advised to avoid all strike-related activity as a precaution. Persons in north eastern India are reminded that, due to persistent insecurity, all non-essential travel to Manipur and a number of other states in the region is advised against.

SERBIA(BELGRADE) - A student group has called for an anti-immigrant and anti-government protest in Serbia's capital, Belgrade, on 4 September. The rally will be held in Republic Square from 16:30 local time. Another anti-government demonstration is expected in the same area and at the same time on 6 September. The protests on 4 and 6 September may result in localised road traffic disruptions in the vicinity of Republic Square, a common protest point in Belgrade. The risk of significant acts of violence is low; however, confrontations between police and protesters remain a risk. Clients in Belgrade on 4 and 6 September should exercise caution in the vicinity of Republic Square and should avoid all street protests as a precaution.

BAHRAIN - The UK's Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has stated that several protests are ongoing or upcoming in Bahrain on 3 and 4 September. Unauthorised protests are reportedly ongoing in Karranah, Malkiya and Sitra on 3 September. An additional protest has been called for Bilad Al Qadeem, from 19:00 local time on 4 September. Opposition protests by groups representing the Shiite Muslim majority against the Sunni-dominated regime have been ongoing since 2011. The protesters call for greater political reforms and the release of jailed activists. The majority of protests are peaceful but can end in violence if protesters attempt to gather in or march towards the capital, or if militant elements within the Shiite community conduct low-level attacks against state facilities and personnel during related gatherings. During protest periods, moderate to severe road travel disruptions are often reported. Clients are advised against all non-essential travel to Bahrain, excluding Manama, the Bahrain International Airport and main roads leading from the airport to the capital. All street protests and travel at night should be avoided. Heightened caution is advised while driving on major road routes and if travelling near state facilities and personnel outside of Manama.

ARMENIA(YEREVAN) - Activist groups are expected to hold a demonstration in Armenia's capital, Yerevan, on 4 September. The demonstration has been called in response to proposed draft amendments to the country's constitution. The demonstration will coincide with parliamentary hearings of the Standing Committee on State and Legal Affairs of the National Assembly, regarding the issue. Participants are expected to gather at Freedom Square from 17:00 local time. Although the demonstration is expected to conclude without incident, the possibility of low-level incidents of civil unrest, including violent confrontations between protesters and police officials cannot be dismissed. The demonstration is expected to be well attended; as such, localised travel disruptions in the vicinity of Freedom Square should be anticipated. Persons in Yerevan on 4 September are advised to avoid the upcoming demonstration as a precaution and should monitor local media for announcements of associated gatherings. Clients should make provisions for potential travel disruptions and plan accordingly.

KOSOVO(PRISTINA) - An unidentified civic group is expected to hold an anti-government demonstration in Pristina, Kosovo, on 5 September. The demonstration, organised via social media, will be held in protest of the government's alleged corruption and maladministration. Participants are expected to gather at Zahir Pajaziti Square from 14:00 local time. Protests motivated by a variety of political and socio-economic concerns occur regularly in Pristina, and usually conclude without major incident. However, the possibility of isolated incidents of unrest at the upcoming demonstration cannot be dismissed. It is unclear how well supported the demonstration will be, as neither opposition groups, nor the Kosovo police have received official notification of the demonstration. Nonetheless, localised travel disruptions should be expected in and around the vicinity of the Zahir Pajaziti Square. Persons in Pristina on 5 September are advised to avoid all street protests and concentrations of security forces, as a precaution. Clients are advised to monitor local media for updates on associated gatherings. Clients should make provisions for travel disruptions and plan accordingly.

BANGLADESH - The 20-party opposition alliance led by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has called for demonstrations across Bangladesh on 6 September. The protests have been called in opposition to increases in fuel and electricity prices. Further details regarding the location of the planned protests have not been provided. The BNP-led alliance is the largest opposition grouping in the country. As such, any events that do occur are likely to be well-attended. Protests are likely near BNP or BNP-affiliated offices, outside of prominent government buildings and in major public squares across the country on 6 September, including in the capital, Dhaka. There is an elevated risk of violence and traffic disruption at all politically motivated protest action in Bangladesh. The risk is particularly acute at BNP-led events. Clients in Bangladesh on 6 September are advised to monitor local media and should consult with local contacts or their security provider for further details and updates regarding the planned protest and protest locations. All street protests should be avoided as a precaution.

MOLDOVA(CHISINAU) - A number of civil organisations and opposition groups are set to stage a demonstration in support of closer ties to the EU and against government corruption, on 6 September. Participants are expected to gathering in Piata Marii Adunari Nationale (Great National Assembly Square) from 12:00 local time. The upcoming protest is expected to be well attended and will likely result in localised traffic disruptions. Although confrontations between police and protesters can occur at any politically motivated gathering, such unrest is not anticipated at the upcoming event. Clients in Chisinau should avoid all street protests as a standard precaution. Localised traffic disruptions should be expected.

ATG has Customer Coaches available around-the-clock should you

need assistance with your travel plans.