24.03.25
Good morning,
Following the Heathrow airport closure today due to a fire and the subsequent travel disruption, we have compiled some advice for UK travellers from Martin Nolan, Traveller Rights Expert at Skyscanner.
Useful tools/information on Skyscanner.net
Martin is available to offer consumer advice on traveller questions relating to their flights.
Hope it's of use to you, see below.
“In the moment of last-minute disruption to your travel plans, we know how difficult and frustrating it can be to trying to navigate the next steps. In the case of Heathrow, currently passengers have been advised not to travel to the airport and should contact their airline for further information. From rebooking and refunds to finding the right airline contact details, here are our tips and advice.”
- Ask if your airline can rebook you for another flight
“If you wish to continue your trip despite the cancellation of a flight, your airline might be able to offer you an alternative. A replacement flight option is often available along with refunds and vouchers for you to pick from.”
- Explore your money back options
“If you’re flying from a UK or EU airport, or if your airline is UK or EU based, then depending on the reason for your cancellation or delay, you could be entitled to a refund or alternative flight. You could also be entitled to food, phone calls and accommodation costs together with flight cancellation compensation. You have the option to receive the refund either in cash or as a voucher that you can redeem against a future booking.”
- Find out if you’re eligible for compensation
“If the airline gives less than two weeks’ notice, you might be able to claim compensation in addition to a refund or re-routing. This only applies if the cancellation is within the airline’s control – not, for example, because of bad weather, air traffic control strikes, or pandemics.
“Most travel insurance policies will kick in if your transport is delayed for more than 12 hours. If your flight is delayed for more than two hours for short-haul, three hours for medium-haul or four hours for long-haul, the airline you’re booked with has a responsibility to look after you while you’re at the airport. This means providing you with food and drink, accommodation if your flight is moved to the next day and transport to the hotel.”
- Contact your airline or travel agent
“While your rights are protected under UK law, every airline and OTA has its own approach. Visit the airline’s or travel agency’s official website and read through their cancellation policy. It’s usually either on the ‘contact’ or ‘FAQ’ page. Most of them will include information about rebooking and refunds when they email to tell you about the cancellation, so check your inbox. You can also find our partners’ contact details via Skyscanner.”
Gemma Jamieson
|
Senior Global PR Manager Skyscanner, Edinburgh EH3 9EN |