Adventure by Air Founder Lisa Pagotto says they’ve already seen a shift by the luxury traveller, with growing demand for experiences closer to home in light of recent US airstrikes on Iran.
The US strikes on Iran have intensified the situation in the Middle East, with travel conditions constantly changing.
Most recently, Qatar Airways temporarily suspended all flights. The airline paused all operations into and out of Doha’s Hamad International Airport late on Monday (local time) before announcing the resumption of services around two hours later.
And Adventure by Air Founder Lisa Pagotto says the airstrikes are already having a broader impact on luxury traveller choices.
Pagotto launched her business during the pandemic, but went into hibernation when international borders reopened and domestic tourism slowed down, and relaunched in March 2025.
Created to meet the growing demand for exclusive, tailor-made air travel, Pagotto says of the recent airstrikes, “we’ve definitely noticed a shift”.
“While overall travel appetite remains strong, there’s a growing demand for experiences that feel both extraordinary and controlled and closer to home.”
She says Adventure by Air has seen an uptick in enquiries from travellers who still want the thrill of discovery, but with more autonomy and less exposure to busy airports, long-haul logistics, or uncertainty in far-flung regions.
“A large part of our demographic is the baby boomer market. Seasoned travellers who’ve long prioritised international adventures and, in many cases, intentionally left Australia until last.
“But world events like those unfolding now are prompting them to revisit that choice.
“Many are choosing to explore their own backyard while still expecting the comfort, exclusivity, and depth they’d normally seek abroad.”
She says there’s a particular appeal in the idea of private air travel within familiar or close-to-home destinations.
“It combines luxury and ease with that deep sense of perspective you only get from the air. Our travellers aren’t avoiding adventure – they’re just choosing to redirect how they do it at present.”
She says longer term, “this is less about fear and more about values”.
“Luxury travellers are increasingly seeking experiences that offer freedom, intimacy, and meaning.
“Private aviation, especially when tied to immersive, regional experiences, ticks all those boxes.
“It’s not just a workaround for the moment; it’s part of a broader redefinition of what luxury means now: less status, more substance.”
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has issued new travel alerts for every country in the Middle East, warning Australian travellers of potential disruptions, even for countries not directly impacted by the latest hostilities.
For up-to-date developments, visit Karryon.com.au.
Or go here for more about Adventure by Air.
