Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

Emirates to offer incentives and reliability, but no fare cut, says Clark

BERLIN
Emirates to offer incentives and reliability, but no fare cut, says Clark
Tim Clark

Emirates plans to introduce a range of incentives aimed at reassuring passengers and encouraging them to return to travel amid the ongoing Iran conflict, but the airline has ruled out fare discounts as part of its strategy.

Speaking to Reuters on the sidelines of an industry summit in Berlin, Emirates President Tim Clark said the Dubai-based carrier would focus on measures designed to boost traveller confidence, particularly around safety and travel reliability.

"We'll offer all sorts of incentives other than price," Clark told Reuters, noting that the airline was exploring additional assurances related to operational safety, flight continuity and passenger support.

Clark said Emirates would continue its long-standing policy of maintaining flight schedules despite higher operating costs arising from regional instability. He added that the airline would work to address concerns over flight disruptions, cancellations and passengers becoming stranded due to conflict-related airspace restrictions.

According to Clark, Emirates would take steps to ensure passengers reach their destinations, including arranging alternative travel options on other airlines when necessary.

"We'll take care of all of that, including flying them on other carriers if necessary to bring them home or get the kids into school," he told Reuters.

Clark also revealed that Emirates is in discussions with governments and aviation regulators regarding restrictions on Middle East airspace, which have tightened amid the conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States.

Clark said Emirates was not in a position to reduce ticket prices at present, citing volatile fuel costs. "The ticket price is very much conditional on what the oil price starts, and at the moment the oil price fluctuates," he told Reuters.