Tourism Breaking News
Amidst the delays in flights in the UK, the International drivers association has shared some strategies to be used in order to transform a seemingly difficult situation to a much manageable one where travellers can control their time, finances and the overall travel experience to be a better one. “It is crucial to understand your rights when facing flight delays,” says Michael Bissona of the International Drivers Association. In the UK, air passenger rights are governed by EU law, which permits compensation for delays of three hours or more.
Eligibility depends on the following conditions:
- Departure from an EU airport, or arrival at an EU airport with an EU airline.
- Delay is more than three hours.
- The airline is responsible for the delay.
Ensure you cancel any booking or carparking to avoid surcharges.
Keep Your Expenses Minimal
Watch your spending. Many travelers tend to go overboard with unnecessary purchases during delays—steer clear of this trap! Be mindful of your budget and stick to buying only what is necessary.
Keep a Record of Expenses
“Keep a record of all expenses incurred during the delay. You may need these for your compensation claim,” advises Bissona. This includes meals, drinks, transportation, and even accommodation if necessary.
How to Lodge a Compensation Claim
Contact the airline, refer to the airline’s delay/cancellation policy, and state your claim for compensation. Include your flight details, length of the delay, and incurred expenses. Arm yourself with knowledge and persistence—sometimes, airlines might initially reject your claim, but if you’re eligible under EU laws, don’t shy away from appealing the decision.
TIP: If unusual circumstances (like extreme weather or security risks) caused the delay, the airline might not be obligated to compensate you. But it doesn’t hurt to check.
Essential Actions to Follow
Follow these actions whenever a severe delay occurs:
- Contact the airline ASAP.
- Keep a record of the delay.
- Retain all relevant receipts.
- Lodge your compensation claim.
With these strategies, you can transform a seemingly difficult situation into a manageable one—maintaining control over your finances, time, and overall travel experience.
