Will I get compensation for any delay?
Fog is affecting flights at UK airports for a third day but compensation is not usually given for delays in such circumstances. Although they must ensure you have are given refreshments in the event of long delays, airlines are not liable to pay the additional cash compensation set out by EU regulations because they are not directly responsible for the disruption.
The best source of information is your airline website. It will usually have prominent links on its homepage outlining which flights, if any, are affected.
Am I entitled to a refund if my airline cancels my flight?
Yes. European Union regulations require airlines to offer you either a full refund of the unused parts of your tickets, or to re-route you to your destination, as soon as possible. If your flight is cancelled outright you are entitled to a full refund. Some airlines may also allow you to rebook your flights for a later date at no extra cost.
What should I do if I am stranded abroad?
EU regulations make it clear that, when a flight with an EU airline or from an EU airport is cancelled, an airline is liable to pay for the cost of a hotel and subsistence for all those stranded as a result, until a replacement flight is provided. Should your airline advise you to buy your own food and accommodation, keep all receipts, and keep such costs to a reasonable minimum, before making a claim when you get back to Britain.
What about package holidays?
Those passengers on package holidays who are stranded in a destination should be looked after by their tour operator, and the operator is legally obliged to get them home. Customers will usually be allowed to stay in their original hotel, or will be moved to one of a similar standard on a half-board or all-inclusive basis. The exact situation will depend on the operator’s booking terms and conditions.
Can I cancel my accommodation?
If you have booked a hotel, a villa or other accommodation independently of your travel arrangements (ie not as part of a package holiday) your contract is directly with the hotel or villa and you are responsible for any cancellation. If you can’t get there, you will have to do your best to persuade them to give you a refund or rebook for a later date – but they are not obliged to do this and you may lose money.
Am I covered by my travel insurance?
Your policy may pay out a small amount for very long delays (usually over 12 huors), but not usually enough to pay for more than a meal or two. A few policies have cover for a “consequential loss”, such as a hotel booking made independently. You will need to check the terms and conditions which apply to your policy directly with your insurer.
Useful websites
Civil Aviation Authority (for passenger rights)
Abta
Foreign Office
BAA (Heathrow, Stansted, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Southampton)
Gatwick Airport
London Luton
Flybe
British Airways
Thomas Cook
Thomson
Monarch
Virgin Holidays
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