How To Fly to Asia & Australia from the UK, Avoiding the Middle East (2026 Guide)

Looking to fly soon to Asia and Australia? You may be wondering what options are available to you or if you need to change your travel plans in response to ongoing airspace disruption in parts of the Middle East.

Below we have outlined your main journey options, from direct flights to popular stopovers, alternative routes, and more. So you can travel with confidence.

Direct Flights

Direct flights are usually the easiest option for international travel. You’ll find that many national airlines for Asian countries are still running flights to and from Europe, although this may be on a more limited schedule.

There is still a direct flight operating from London to Australia; however, there is a temporary refuelling stop in Singapore at the moment.

Please note that your airline has a responsibility to notify you of any changes to the planned flight journey. For most flights, this may be a difference of some extra time in the sky. On occasion, this may mean an added stopover for fuel or rescheduling in the event of delays or cancellations.

Popular National Airlines for Asia

• Thai Airways (Thailand)
• Vietnam Airlines (Vietnam)
• Singapore Airlines (Singapore)
• EVA Air (Taiwan; and also stops in Bangkok)
• Japan Airlines (Japan)
• Korean Air (South Korea)
• Air China (China)

Popular Connections (West > East)

Looking at connecting flights? Below we’ve listed the most popular airports that offer seamless onward travel connections when flying eastbound from the UK.

Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul Airport (IST) is Turkey’s biggest international airport, and the second busiest in Europe. It’s a very popular option for connecting flights to Asia, such as Japan and Vietnam.

Bangkok, Thailand

Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) is Bangkok’s main international airport. There are many connecting flight options available to other Southeast Asian countries, and to Australia or New Zealand.

Singapore

Changi Airport (SIN) is famous for being one of the best airports in the world. Many travellers heading to Australia or New Zealand choose to do a connection here. It’s also popular for reaching other Asian destinations, like Cambodia, Bali, and the Philippines.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) is Malaysia’s main hub for international travel. It is geographically located near Singapore and is a more budget-friendly alternative.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) is Vietnam’s busiest airport for international traffic. It can be a great option for onward travel in Asia, Australia or New Zealand.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) is a fantastic option for onward travel to Australia, New Zealand, or Southeast Asia. The airport also ranks as one of the nicest in the world!

Shanghai, China

Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) is China’s main hub for international travel. Flights that include a stopover in China are typically more affordable, so this could be a great option for those on a tighter budget.

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo has two main international airports. These are Haneda Airport (HND) and Narita International Airport (NRT). Haneda primarily serves Japan, Europe, the USA and nearby Asian countries. 

Meanwhile, Narita carries more global routes and budget airlines. Depending on your final destination, it’s worth considering either option for a stopover.

Seoul, South Korea

Incheon Airport (ICN) is the primary gateway for international travel to South Korea, located outside of Seoul. The facilities are really nice here, plus it’s a chance to purchase those viral K-beauty and skincare products at duty-free.

Popular Connections (East > West)

Prefer to fly westbound from the UK? We’ve got you covered. Please note that these journeys are typically longer and may involve a few extra steps, such as requiring an ESTA as part of a country’s entry requirements. 

Los Angeles, USA

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the most popular option for long-haul journeys westbound. Direct flights to LA are available from the UK, as are 1-stop connections ( New York City, Atlanta, and Dallas being the most popular).

San Francisco, USA

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) also provides long-haul journeys to Australia or New Zealand. Direct flights to San Francisco are also available from the UK, as are 1-stop connections.

Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is a fantastic option for those flying to Australia or New Zealand as their final destination. You can fly direct from the UK to Vancouver. It’s also popular to stopover in Toronto or Calgary as part of the journey.

Unique Connections 

Johannesburg, South Africa

O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) is one of Africa’s busiest airports. Some international flights are available, mostly outbound to Hong Kong, Singapore, and Perth (Australia).

Santiago, Chile

Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) is the fastest route westbound from South America to Australia or New Zealand. You’ll find some direct flights available to Sydney or Auckland.

Taipei, Taiwan

Flying eastbound from the UK? Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) could be a fantastic option for you. It is about 40km away from Taipei. You can typically fly to Australia, New Zealand, Japan, plus many Southeast Asian countries from here.

Extending Your Travels with a Stopover

Did you know that booking multiple one-way flights to reach your final destination can sometimes be more budget-friendly? See it as an exciting opportunity to tick off another country by taking the route less travelled.

All the connections we’ve listed above work perfectly for spending a couple of days exploring. Here’s why.

Popular Eastbound Stopovers

Why Spend Time in Istanbul, Turkey? Istanbul is a unique city, both culturally European and Asian. Explore the vibrant palaces and markets, plus fill up on delicious Turkish cuisine.

Why Spend Time in Bangkok, Thailand? Bangkok is the best intro to Southeast Asia. From night markets to golden temples, it’s easy to fill a few days of sightseeing here.

Why Spend Time in Singapore? Shopping, street food, skyscrapers. Watch Crazy Rich Asians (2018; aka the ultimate plane movie), and you’ll quickly see why Singapore is a must-visit.

Why Spend Time in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia? Kuala Lumpur has the most stunning contrasts. One minute, you’re exploring traditional lantern-lit alleyways. Next, it’s all about futuristic rooftop bars.

Why Spend Time in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam? This city makes an epic first impression. It’s Vietnam with an international twist, perfect for trying your first bánh mì or coconut coffee. You could even visit the famous Cu Chi Tunnels right outside Ho Chi Minh City.

Why Spend Time in Hong Kong? Hong Kong’s skyline is absolutely stunning, and you can even do a bit of island-hopping here. Also, the food. The food is unreal.

Why Spend Time in Shanghai, China? Shanghai has such a cool vibe. From its iconic waterfront to hidden temples and leafy avenues, it’s easy to get lost in the beauty. Perfect for chilling at a café, or filling up on dumplings (noticing a theme here?).

Why Spend Time in Tokyo, Japan? Reason one: It’s Japan. Reason two: Tokyo’s energy is just incredible. Tick off bucket list sights like Shibuya Crossing, Sensō-ji Temple, and more.

Why Spend Time in Seoul, South Korea? Feeling bored in Seoul is pretty much impossible, with so many fun activities and trendy shops to keep you busy. You’ll probably need a second suitcase for all the cute things you may end up buying!

Popular Westbound Stopovers

Why Spend Time in Los Angeles, USA? You’ve seen it on the big screen, now experience the magic for yourself. Theme parks, Venice Beach, and that unmissable Hollywood sign… LA is iconic for a reason.

Why Spend Time in San Francisco, USA? San Francisco is even more stunning in person. Enjoy the sunshine whilst exploring its green parks, get to know its famous Chinatown, and hop aboard one of the historic streetcars. And the Golden Gate Bridge, obviously.

Why Spend Time in Vancouver, Canada? Big city life, but for nature lovers! Stroll along the harbour, discover the treetop trails, or go on a hike nearby. You’re also a ferry journey away from the dreamy views of Vancouver Island.

Unique Stopovers

Why Spend Time in Johannesburg, South Africa? South Africa’s biggest city is full of personality, from live music to street art and café culture. Plus all its history. You’re also not too far from Kruger National Park for safaris!

Why Spend Time in Santiago, Chile? Chile’s capital is an unexpected favourite for travellers visiting South America. The arts and culture are amazing, food and nightlife even more so. Also, those mountain views!

Why Spend Time in Taipei, Taiwan? Whatever you want, you can find it in Taipei. Bustling night markets, beautiful temples, emerald hiking trails right outside the capital… Name it, and it’s waiting for you here!

Check Entry Requirements for Stopovers

A common mistake that travellers make all the time is forgetting to check the entry requirements for countries they may have a stopover in. Some countries, such as the USA and Canada, may require you to have an ESTA or ETA for a layover. 

For British nationals, you can stay updated by visiting the relevant Foreign Travel Advice pages, provided online by the UK government. Refer to FCDO for further details.

Connecting vs Self-Transfers

If your flight has 1 or more stopovers included as part of your journey, it will either be a connecting or self-transfer.

Connecting flights are when your entire flight route is booked onto a single ticket. Your chosen airline should transfer your checked-in baggage to your final destination. Typically, you will not need to clear through immigration for your connections. In the event of delays or cancellations, your airline is responsible for helping you reach your final destination.

Self-transfers are flights that are independent of one another. This can often be more affordable; however, please keep in mind that it is your sole responsibility to reach your final destination in the event of delays and cancellations.

You will need to recheck in your baggage and go through immigration for each stop, and you may need to provide proof of onward travel to enter a destination.

Please note: Some countries, such as the USA and South Africa, will require you to recheck in your baggage regardless of whether your flight is connecting or a self-transfer.

Low-Cost Carriers from Asia

Say you’re travelling to Indonesia or the Philippines. One of your more budget-friendly options could be getting a flight to Bangkok or Ho Chi Minh City. From there, you could take a low-cost flight to your final destination.

Popular low-cost carriers for Asia:

• Vietjet
• Air Asia
• Jetstar
• Scoot
• Lion Air

Please note that these would be considered self-transfer flights.

Always Check Your Ticket

Some flights may still be available to purchase online, even if it specifies a stopover in the Middle East. Although we understand the rush to book onto the first available flight, please always do your research and read everything through before purchase.

A flight may be scheduled to go ahead, yet airspace disruption is subject to change, and you may need to find alternative plans.

Get Expert Advice

This is a unique situation, and it can be difficult to know what the best course of action is, even if you have travelled long distances before.

Our flight partners, Flights 360, specialise in supporting our travellers on their journeys overseas. Although flight options may be more limited at this time, they can provide you with the best available options. In the event of delays or cancellations, your personally assigned flights coordinator will oversee all the details.

Flights 360 work with most major airlines, and can also organise multi-stop itineraries for you (so that NYC detour? They can make it happen 🌆). 

If it’s your first time flying solo, we have put together a step-by-step guide taking you through the most important steps. Check out First Time Flying Solo? Here's What to Do at the Airport. ✈️

 

We hope this guide has clarified some details for you. If you have any further questions, please get in touch by visiting our Contact Us page.