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

UNITED STATES / NEW ZEALAND - American Airlines has announced details of its new nonstop service between Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Auckland Airport (AKL). Daily flights between the two cities will kick off in June 2016, said the airline. It plans to operate the service with the newest addition to its fleet, the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner. The flight, approved by New Zealand's transport minister, will be operated as part of an American Airlines tie-up with Australian airline Qantas. Air Zealand has held a monopoly on the nonstop Auckland-Los Angeles route since Qantas ended its service in 2012.

AIR SERBIA - Air Serbia will launch the first nonstop flights between Serbia and the US since 1992 next year. The airline will commence a five-times weekly service from Belgrade to New York JFK in June. It will operate a leased two-cabin A330-200 aircraft on the route, which is subject to regulatory approval. Aleksandar Vucic, prime minister of Serbia, said: "The launch of nonstop flights between Belgrade and New York in June next year will be a hugely proud and significant moment in the short history of Air Serbia, demonstrating the growth and ambitions of the airline." Air Serbia, formerly Jat Airways, is 49 per cent owned by Etihad Airways (see news, March 2014). James Hogan, CEO of Etihad Airways and Air Serbia's vice chairman of the supervisory board, said: "The new service shows one of the main strengths of Etihad Airways Partners. In launching this transatlantic service, Air Serbia can call upon the expertise and resources of pilot and cabin crew training, as well as fleet and engineering support."

GERMANY (LUFTHANSA) - Most flights between the Bulgarian capital and the airports in Frankfurt and Munich operated by Lufthansa are cancelled as the strike of the flight attendants of the German airline continues on Thursday. Flight LH1704, which is scheduled to arrive in Sofia from Munich at 18:20 EET, and flight LH1705, which is scheduled to depart from the Bulgarian capital to Munich at 19:20 EET, are expected to run as normal. The Flight Attendant's Organization (UFO) announced further strike action from Wednesday until Friday between 4.00 and 23.59 on all flights from/to Frankfurt, Munich and Dusseldorf. Out of a total of 3000 planned Lufthansa Group connections, 933 flights have to be cancelled on Thursday, which will affect approximately 107 000 passengers. Flights from Lufthansa Group airlines - Lufthansa CityLine, Germanwings, Eurowings, Air Dolomiti, Austrian Airlines, SWISS and Brussels Airlines are not affected by the strikes and are expected to run as normal. The flight attendants and management of the airline continue to disagree over early retirement conditions and pensions.

UNITED KINGDOM (WALES) - A 48-hour strike by unionised train drivers employed by Arriva Trains Wales due to take place from 12 November has been averted following successful negotiations late on 11 November. The company has indicated that delays remain possible on 12 November; however, services are expected to normalise during the course of the day. Persons in Wales are advised to contact their travel provider for updates on the status of rail services.

BELGIUM (BRUSSELS) - Metro services in Belgium's capital Brussels are expected to be disrupted on 14 November. Metro lines 1 and 5 will be closed in order to facilitate the installation of railway tracks between the Arts-Loi and the Maelbeek metro stations. Line 1 will be closed between Gare Centrale and Montgomery and line 5 between Gare Centrale and Merode. M-bus services will be available between the Gare Centrale and the Montgomery stations. For detailed information on the available bus services please vist www.stib-mivb.be Clients in Brussels should note that the metro line closure will likely result in an increased demand for other modes of public transport, clients should consider organising and/or booking other means of intra-city transport in advance.

PORTUGAL (LISBON) - A ten-day strike by dock workers over pay and work conditions is set to take place in Lisbon, Portugal, from 14 November. An associated demonstration on the day has been announced; however, further details regarding the demonstration have not been confirmed. Precedent suggests that participants will gather outside Portugal's Parliament buildings, the Palacio de Sao Bento on Rua da Imprensa a Estrela, in the city centre for an afternoon rally. The strike action is expected to be well observed and may result in significant disruptions to freight and commuter services at the Port of Lisbon. The related gathering is set to be well attended; as such, localised travel disruptions should be expected in the vicinity of demonstration-affected sites. The upcoming demonstrations are expected to conclude peacefully; however, the possibility of isolated skirmishes cannot be discounted. Persons in Lisbon on 14 November are advised to monitor local media for updates regarding the planned strike and associated demonstration. All large street gatherings and concentrations of security forces should be avoided as a precaution. Clients should also anticipate localised travel disruptions and allow for increased travel time

ITALY (ROME) - Unionised teachers are set to hold a protest march in Italy's capital, Rome, on 13 November. The march has been called to protest against a proposed government law that is expected to have a negative impact on wages and working conditions. Participants are expected to gather outside the Ministry of Education, located on Viale Trastevere, from 10:00 local time and march to the Palazzo Montecitorio, where a rally will be held from 12:00. Although the rally is expected to conclude peacefully, the potential for unrest cannot be discounted. Localised travel disruptions should be expected along the protest route and near demonstration-affected sites. Due to the ongoing education sector grievances, further such demonstrations are expected in the short- to medium-term, at least. Persons in Rome on 13 November are advised to avoid the march and any related gatherings as a precaution. Localised travel delays should be expected.

SWITZERLAND (GENEVA) - (Update) Unionized public sector workers have announced further strike action in Geneva, Switzerland, on 12 November. The extended action forms part of an ongoing protest campaign against proposed government budget cuts, which began on 10 November. Further disruptions to public sector services are expected on the day, with unionized employees expected to observe a series of work stoppages affecting a number of services, including public transport. In addition, associated demonstrations will be held in several major urban areas, including Geneva, where participants are scheduled to gather at the Plainpalais from 16:00 local time. Further details are unavailable. It is currently unclear how well the strike action will be observed, as participation among the sectors has been varied. Nonetheless, disruptions are anticipated to private and public sector services, including public transport. The related gatherings are set to be well attended; as such, localized travel disruptions should be expected in the vicinity of affected sites. The upcoming demonstrations are expected to conclude peacefully; however, the possibility of isolated skirmishes cannot be discounted. Persons in Switzerland are advised to monitor local media for developments regarding the planned strike. All street gatherings should be avoided as a precaution.

MALAYSIA (PAHANG) - The Karak Highway which connects Malaysia's Pahang state to the capital, Kuala Lumpur has been blocked by a landslide on 11 November. The landslide occurred near the town of Bukit Tinggi. No casualties were reported. Authorities have advised motorists to use alternative routes as clean up operations are currently under way. Malaysia's rainy season generally extends from October to February. During this time, low-lying and coastal areas of the country are prone to landslides, flooding and flash flooding triggered by heavy rains, which may at times lead to disruptions to land-based travel. Clients in the affected area or those scheduled to travel on the Karak Highway should monitor local broadcasts for updates on the road clean up operation. Clients should also be aware of the possibility of further landslides.

TURKEY (ANTALYA PROVINCE) - The 2015 G20 Summit will be held in Antalya province, in south western Turkey, from 15 to 16 November. Dozens of heads of state and other prominent political and business personalities are due to participate in the summit, with many arriving from 14 November. The primary venue will be the Regnum Carya Hotel Convention Centre in Belek, located immediately east of the city of Antalya. Approximately 30 hotels in the Belek area have been cordoned off and will be utilised for visiting delegations. Belek has also been declared a security zone and 12,000 security personnel have been deployed to safeguard the event. The elevated security measures are precautionary, given the high-profile nature of the event and the attendees, and in response to the risks of terrorism and civil unrest. The terrorism risk in Turkey is high and both Islamist extremist and leftist militants could perceive the event to be a legitimate target. In light of the extraordinary security measures in place, the likelihood of a successful attack is low. Persons opposed to the summit or participants may also attempt to organise demonstrations during the event. Given the elevated security measures, gatherings are likely outside of Belek. Travel disruptions are also anticipated during the event, particularly in Belek and along the road between Belek and Antalya Airport. Disruptions at Antalya Airport are also anticipated as visiting delegations arrive and depart (until 16 November, at least). Persons in Antalya province until 16 November should exercise a heightened level of personal security awareness, particularly in the Belek area. Travellers should ensure that itineraries cater for possible disruptions to airport operations and road travel. All street protests should be avoided as a precaution.

IRAQ (SINJAR AND RAMADI) - The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) in northern Iraq announced the start of an offensive on 12 November to retake Sinjar in the Ninewa governorate from the Islamic State (IS). The offensive purportedly includes 7,500 troops, with international coalition air support. Sinjar lies on a key route between Syria and Mosul, the IS primary stronghold in Iraq. In central Iraq, pro-government forces have reportedly completed the encirclement of Ramadi, which fell to IS in May. Pro-government forces have entered the city and are engaging IS forces in multiple areas. IS continues to pose a significant security risk to the Iraqi state; however, since its capture of large swathes of Iraqi territory in 2014, the militant organisation has experienced a number of setbacks as pro-government forces, supported by foreign military intelligence structures, special forces and air units, have retaken a number of areas. In addition to the offensives targeting Sinjar and Ramadi, pro-government forces have taken ground near Baiji and are poised to isolate remaining IS positions in Hawija. Despite the IS loss of territory, the group possesses a significant operational capability to conduct retaliatory bombings across the country. Clients are advised against all travel to a number of governorates in the country, including Baghdad, Anbar, Salah ad-Din, Kirkuk, Diyala, Ninewa, Karbala and Babil due to the elevated conflict and terrorism risks. Persons operating in these areas should do so with a close protection officer and should ensure that crisis management plans are regularly reviewed and updated.

EGYPT (EL-ARISH) - Unidentified militants fatally shot eight civilians in El-Arish, in Egypt's North Sinai governorate, during the evening of 11 November. The assailants were shot and killed in their residential premises in the Al-Batal area of the city. Media have stated that the victims were killed because they co-operated with the Egyptian security forces. The North Sinai governorate is a highly insecure area due to the presence of Islamist militants and regular clashes between these forces and the Egyptian police and military. Militants have also been involved in killings targeting civilians accused of co-operating with the state. Clients are advised against all travel to the North Sinai governorate. Persons operating in the area should do so with a security escort and should reside in secure compounds.

AFGHANISTAN (PAKTIKA PROVINCE) - At least 12 locals are said to have been abducted by unidentified assailants in Afghanistan's south eastern Paktika province on 11 November. The victims are said to have been abducted in an unspecified location while travelling between the Sayid Karam district and the provincial capital, Sharan. Further details are unavailable. The threat of kidnapping in Afghanistan is considered extreme and abductions take place on a regular basis. The kidnapping risk stems from both criminal and insurgent groups, such as the Sunni extremist Taleban. The threat remains highest in the southern and eastern regions of Afghanistan, especially in areas along the shared border with Pakistan. Given the widespread presence of militant and criminal groups as well as the significant economic and political gains to be made through kidnapping, further incidents targeting both local and foreign nationals should be anticipated. Due to a number of security concerns, all travel to Afghanistan is advised against. Persons in Afghanistan are advised to adopt heightened security measures, including the use of a security escort and residing in secure accommodation.

NIGER (BOSSO COMMUNE, DIFFA REGION) - According to recent reports, at least 25 people were killed following an attack by suspected Boko Haram militants in Niger's Bosso commune, located in the country's south eastern Diffa region, on 11 November. Nigerien security forces were reportedly able to push back the militants after their initial attack and are currently conducting cleanup operations in the affected area. Following the Nigerien government's operational and logistical support of regional anti-Boko Haram initiatives, the sect has executed a number of retaliatory attacks targeting settlements near the Nigerian border in Niger's southern Dosso, Diffa and Zinder regions. These attacks are likely to continue as long as Niger is involved in counterinsurgency operations against the sect. Due to the threats of conflict, kidnapping and terrorism, all travel to areas within a 50km radius of Niger's shared border with Nigeria in the former's Diffa and Zinder regions is advised against. Clients operating in these regions despite this advisory should ensure that all movements are coordinated in the presence of a security escort and that accommodation is sought in secured residential compounds.

BAHRAIN (AALI, MAAMEER AND SITRA) - The UK's Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has warned of unauthorised protest action in the country on 12 November. Gatherings are anticipated in Aali from 16:00 local time, in Maameer from 20:00 and in Sitra from 20:15. Further details are unavailable. The protest is likely initiated by Shiite Muslim opposition parties or activists; these groups hold regular anti-government protests in the country to demand the release of political prisoners and reforms. Demonstrations are prone to low-level acts of violence directed by militant supporters of these groupings against state interests, or by the police against protesters. Police-initiated violence is more likely to occur if protesters block major roads or march in Sunni areas. Clients are advised against all non-essential travel to Bahrain, excluding Manama, Bahrain International Airport and main roads leading from the airport to the capital. Unaccompanied travel at night outside of secure areas in all locations is advised against. All street protests should be avoided.

HAITI (PORT-AU-PRINCE) - Oppositions groups, including Fanmi Lavalas, are scheduled to stage protest marches and demonstrations in Haiti's capital, Port-au-Prince, on 12 and 13 November. The demonstrations have been called to protest against the 25 October election results; opposition groups have cited a number of electoral irregularities, including rigging of votes. Marches on the aforementioned days are expected to begin from Saint Jean Bosco church, Petionville, and Delmas 2; these will end at the Champs de Mars. Further details regarding the demonstrations are unavailable. Upcoming events are the latest in a series of anti-government demonstrations held in the city in recent months. Related politically motivated protests have been marred by low-level violence, including clashes between protesters and police, and disruptions to road travel. The potential for further violence and disruptions during the upcoming events exists. An increase in election-related rallies is anticipated for the short- to medium-term, at least. While recent demonstrations have focused on Port-au-Prince, the possibility of the escalated protest action spreading across the country remains. Clients are advised against all non-essential travel to Haiti due to a number of security concerns. Persons in the country, specifically Port-au-Prince, are advised to monitor local developments and to avoid all politically motivated gatherings and concentrations of security force personnel. Clients are further advised to exercise heightened caution.

SOUTH KOREA (COUNTRYWIDE) - Labor unions, including the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU), have called a countrywide strike on 14 November. The action has been called over various labour concerns, including wage disputes and poor working conditions. An associated demonstration will be held outside City Hall in the capital, Seoul. Further details regarding the strike and associated protest are unavailable. The upcoming action represents an escalation in protest activity by labour unions. KCTU and other labour unions have staged a number of strikes and demonstrations in recent months; related action took place on 23 September. Previous demonstrations have been well supported; as such, disruptions are anticipated to private and public sector services, including public transport. Turnout at associated rallies has been high, and such events have been characterised by low-level clashes between protesters and security forces. The possibility of unrest at the upcoming demonstration cannot be discounted. Localised travel disruptions are anticipated in affected areas. Persons in South Korea on 14 November are advised to monitor local media for updates regarding the strike and protest. All large street gatherings and concentrations of security force personnel should be avoided as a precaution. Clients should anticipate localised travel disruptions and plan accordingly. Itineraries should be kept flexible to allow for increased travel time.

ANGOLA (COUNTRYWIDE) - According to reports on 10 November, Chinese officials have requested that Angola's incumbent president Jose Eduardo dos Santos do more to protect their nationals from kidnapping in the country, including the implementation of increased security measures. The appeal reportedly follows a recent uptick in the abduction of Chinese nationals in the country, including in the capital, Luanda. Although the risk of kidnapping is generally low in Angola, the country is currently facing an economic downturn that may have facilitated an increase in kidnapping syndicates. It should be noted that Angola's Cabinda province has always exhibited an elevated risk of kidnapping; foreign and Angolan oil workers in the region continue to be targeted by the separatist Front for the Liberation of the Enclave of Cabinda (FLEC) as part of its efforts to halt oil production and gain control of the enclave. However, as this latest development has highlighted; the threat of kidnapping elsewhere in the country cannot be discounted. Persons in Angola are advised against non-essential travel to the Cabinda province due to an ongoing insurgency as well as kidnappings of both locals and foreign nationals. In addition, heightened caution should be exercised in the country's North Lunda and South Lunda provinces due to general insecurity. Foreign nationals operating in the country are advised to exercise heightened personal security measures at all times, maintain a low public profile and limit outward displays of wealth. Clients should also limit travel at night, particularly if alone, and consider varying routes to and from their places of work or residence.

INDIA (KARNATAKA STATE) - Hindu nationalist groups, including the right-wing Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal, have called for a general strike (known locally as a bandh) in India's south western state of Karnataka on 13 November. The strike has been called to protest against violent unrest that erupted during events commemorating Tipu Sultan Jayanti, in Madikeri in Kodagu district, on 9 November. At least two people died in clashes between security forces and protesters, including a VHP member. Associated protests are expected in several major urban areas, including the state capital, Bangalore. Further details regarding the action and associated protests are unavailable. The agitation is likely to be well supported; as such, disruptions to transport and business services are anticipated for the duration of the strike. It should be noted that there is a risk of civil unrest at all protests in India, and the possibility of violence between security forces and protesters at any associated protests cannot be ruled out. Persons in Karnataka on 13 November are advised to monitor local media for developments and updates regarding the strike action and possible associated demonstrations. All street demonstrations and concentrations of security forces should be avoided as a precaution. Localized disruptions should be expected in the vicinity of any protest action.

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