The Situation

The travellers were scheduled to depart El Nido on the evening of 6 November, then connect through Manila the following morning. As the storm intensified, local carrier Swift Air began adjusting services. Revised schedules moved the family’s departure to 8 November, placing them dangerously close to the typhoon’s landfall window. Complicating matters further, accommodation at their Hotel was only confirmed through to Saturday, and alternative flights were rapidly filling as other travellers attempted to evacuate. The family also raised the possibility of travelling five hours by road to the larger Parwan airport, although the safety and viability of that route was uncertain due to potential storm damage.

The Response from Batch Assist and Global 24

Within minutes of receiving the request, Global 24 began assessing the evolving situation.

Their team:

• Investigated all available exit routes

Swift Air operated a limited fleet of small commuter aircraft, making disruptions more likely as weather deteriorated. Global 24 reviewed their latest flight models and investigated alternative carriers and routes where larger aircraft might still operate.

• Assessed ground transport risks

The proposed five-hour drive to Parwan was examined carefully. With infrastructure damage still being reported, road conditions were unknown. Global 24 advised holding off on committing to this option until a safe passage and onward flights could be confirmed.

• Monitored the typhoon’s projected path

Updated modelling showed Kalmaegi expected to cross the coast on 9 November, with Manila sitting on the edge of the cone of uncertainty. This meant the family needed to preserve their booking options while avoiding unnecessary exposure to high-risk travel windows.

• Provided clear and timely guidance

Global 24 recommended keeping the revised flights in place while they continued to monitor weather, ground conditions, and flight availability. Their advice balanced the need for urgency with the need for safety.

The Outcome

With support from Batch Assist and Global 24, the travellers were able to maintain safe options while avoiding premature or risky moves. As the situation evolved, the team continued to reassess flight viability, road conditions, and alternative exit routes, ensuring the family had access to informed, specialist guidance through a highly uncertain period.

Why This Matters for Brokers

This case highlights the real value of Batch’s emergency assistance partnership. When travellers face sudden weather events, disrupted infrastructure, or rapidly changing flight paths, they need more than a policy. They need experts who can interpret risk, verify safe options, and coordinate a path to safety.

Batch Assist and Global 24 provide that support every minute of every day, giving your clients confidence that help is available when they need it most.

You Need – We Respond