In this episode of Everything Counts, we unpack the real-world impact of geopolitical tension on global travel, from grounded flights and closed airspace to the human stories behind stranded passengers. What happens behind the scenes when airlines, advisors, and entire systems are forced to respond in real time?

Host Motheo Khoaripe is joined by Paolo Giuricich, Head of Investec Travel, and Otto de Vries, CEO of ASATA, to explore how the travel industry navigates air travel disruptions, and what it means for you as a traveller.

From operational chaos to extraordinary collaboration, and a powerful story of one family’s journey home, this conversation reveals a simple truth: travel works best when everything goes right, but its true value shows when everything goes wrong.

Topics covered:

● How global conflict disrupts air travel systems

● What happens when major travel hubs shut down

● The role of travel advisors during crises

● Why travel insurance matters more than you think

● A real-life story of resilience, uncertainty, and getting home

00:00 Introduction

01:10 How global conflict affects air travel

02:05 What did airspace closures in the Middle East mean for travellers?

06:03: Managing safety and expectations during airspace closures

07:15 How Investec helped customers stranded due to airspace closures

09:16 Behind-the-scenes crisis management during global travel disruption

10:50 The role of relationships within the travel industry

12:55 How travel insurance works during global travel disruption

16:37 A family stranded in Doha: How Investec helped

24:37 Benefits of using a travel advisor

26:37 Key takeaways from airline disruption management

28:17 Conclusion Investec Focus Radio SA