Friends,

Because several of you have reached out, I’m sharing a quick, add-on segment today in light of the recent strikes in Iran. My aim isn’t to add to the sphere of geopolitical commentary — only to speak to two practical travel-related questions I’ve been asked:

1. Is it safe to travel internationally right now?

2. What precautions, if any, are advisable?

Of course, both answers are personal. I know some of you disagreed with my decision to board a plane to Turkey last Monday, just as the current conflict began to unfold. In so many words, that’s my point.

That said, here’s how I’m thinking about the situation at hand.

Is it safe to travel internationally right now?

Short answer: yes — in most parts of the world, the risk profile hasn’t materially shifted.

To be sure, we’re seeing real operational disruption in the region:

1. Emirates has a 777 grounded in Tehran.

2. Pegasus Airlines has five A320s stuck in Shiraz, Tabriz, and Tehran.

3. Qatar Airways reportedly has a few aircraft currently unable to fly out of Iraq.

British Airways diverted their early flight to Dubai yesterday and has since canceled service to both Dubai and Doha — noting, of course, the legacy of BA149 and the understandably conservative posture that followed. American and United both suspended routes to the region last week. Tel Aviv’s airport remains closed, aside from limited repatriation service by EL AL.

On a personal note: I had originally planned to route home via Jordan on this last trip, though my itinerary changed weeks ago for unrelated reasons. I ended up flying back on Air France instead. Knowing what we know now, I wouldn’t have boarded a flight to Amman.

I share all of this because these are at present regional realities. For those not in the direct area of conflict, air travel remains largely business as usual.

What precautions are advisable?

Plainly:

1. Stay in contact with your local embassy or consulate.

2. Maintain real-time situational awareness.

3. Have a contingency plan in place.

Everyone has a different tolerance for risk, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But there are wise steps to stay informed while maintaining perspective — and that’s the foundation of good travel risk management.

To be clear: the current conflict is serious. I write with full awareness of that, and not flippantly.

I’m also happy to assist — logistically or otherwise — if you’re navigating plans in light of the unfolding events. Like many of you, I’m watching this closely. I’m just watching the airline angle, too.

-Tommy