As unexpected delays hit airports across the country today, experts at CompareNI.com are urging travellers to know their rights.
Airlines and airports can face many challenges that may cause flight delays or cancellations, especially during the summer months when airports are busier than usual.
A recent survey by CompareNI.com found that a quarter of those surveyed had experienced a delayed or cancelled flight in the last year and nearly a fifth (19%) had lost money as a result.*
Commenting on the unexpected delays, Greg Wilson CEO and travel insurance expert at CompareNI.com said: “The airline delays and cancellations this morning have no doubt created travel chaos for many holidaymakers, hopefully all will be resolved shortly and airlines will reorganise flights – for those with travel insurance, any expenses incurred are likely covered under missed departure or delayed departure, it’s important to check the details of the insurance policy to make sure these terms are covered. Just be sure to keep all emails and communication from the airline to help you claim back any compensation needed. If a traveller has travel disruption cover included in their policy, that should cover any knock-on effect to the holiday itself, such as accommodation, up to a certain value – again just check the details of the policy and the allowance applied, the more premium the policy the higher the compensation will be.”
What to do if your flight is delayed or cancelled:
- Cancelled flight – passengers legally have the right to request a full refund from the airline, or a replacement flight which will allow travellers to get to their final destination.
- Long delay – five or more hours delayed entitles all passengers to compensation, full refunds, or a replacement trip.
- Short delay – travellers can request help with travel costs, claiming compensation if the cancelled flight means a delay of arrival by two or more hours. (The airline will rarely give out compensation if a delay was caused due to reasons beyond their control – such as adverse weather conditions)
- Personal emergency – If you are unable to travel due to a medical emergency or a family bereavement your travel insurance could help to cover the costs, but you should be sure to take out the insurance policy at the same time as you book your trip.