The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advice is to avoid all but essential travel to Italy – but many airlines have decided to continue to operate to the country.
This leaves passengers with a choice to make between flouting the FCO advice and travelling, or adhering to the restrictions and losing their money.
On Tuesday, British Airways became the first UK airline to suspend flights to Italy, which has been completely locked down due to the coronavirus outbreak, meaning its passengers will able to get a refund instead of travelling.
Ryanair has also suspended all flights to Italy, offering customers the option of a full refund or travel credit.
Jet2 customers due to fly to Venice have also had their flights cancelled and have been offered a date change or refund.
Despite the FCO advice, easyJet is still operating flights to Milan, Bologna and Venice, only offering passengers a refund on any government tax they paid if they cancel.
