Expert tips on dealing with the dreaded flight delays
As a result of the air traffic control systems' malfunction, many travellers are experiencing extensive flight delays and flight cancellations. In response to this, Jonathan Merry, MoneyTransfers.com's CEO, has come up with several helpful suggestions to manage the approaching flight delays.
Make sure you’re up to date with information about the ongoing strike. You can keep yourself informed by creating Google notifications for keywords related to flights and strikes. Google will notify you via email whenever new information is released. Stay connected with the airline or relevant airport by checking their websites' news section and social media accounts. These are usually the first places that are updated. If you want more specific information about alternative arrangements or compensation options, you may consider contacting the airline’s customer service desk. However, be prepared to experience long wait times as many people are in the same situation as you.
Think ahead: Don't put off checking the situation until you get to the airport. Look at news websites to find out about any upcoming strikes. If you're taking the train to or from the airport, see if there are any planned rail strikes that could affect your trip. Even if you're not going to France, keep in mind that if your flight passes through French airspace, you may be impacted by the French air traffic controllers’ strike. Always have backup plans in case something goes wrong.
3. Give yourself some extra time: Expect the worst and plan accordingly. You never know if check-in queues will be long or if traffic will be bad on your way to the airport. Even if your flight isn't impacted by strikes, you may face a backlog at customs due to delays caused by other airlines. Arriving early will give you enough time to handle any unexpected issues that may arise.
Connecting with the airline is the most effective method to obtain accurate information regarding available solutions, even if there are many other customers waiting to speak with the customer service team. The airline may be competent to book you onto a different flight or offer alternative modes of transportation. It is necessary to keep in mind that airline representatives are likely to be coping with several angry travelers. Therefore, speaking politely to them can help you get a long way in resolving the issue.
The section suggests taking different ways if you want to avoid chaos caused by strikes. Heathrow Airport will have strikes every weekend for three months, so it's best to avoid it during these times. Instead, try using other airports such as Gatwick, City, Stansted, or Luton. If you're going to the Dordogne and the strikes in France cause problems, you might consider using the ferry or Eurostar as alternatives. You should also look at the airline route maps, as some airlines may use different routes for flights to Spain or the Balearics. Different UK airports also take different routes. Northern airports typically fly through Spain, while Southern airports usually go through France.
6. It's important to think about where you'll stay: Sleeping on the airport ground might not work if you have young children with you. If your flight gets cancelled or delayed due to a strike, you might have to find somewhere to sleep for the night. Ask the airline if they can help you find a place to stay or if you can get some money back to cover your costs. If not, search for hotels around the airport and book one yourself, but make sure to keep your receipts so you can claim on your travel insurance.
Make sure you bring along important things: It's a good idea to pack a carry-on bag with important items just in case you end up being at the airport for a long period of time. This is especially crucial if you're travelling with infants or small kids. You might want to include things like toiletries, medicine, a spare outfit, and adequate supplies of diapers and baby formula for an extended stay. Diversions like tablets or coloring books can also provide a sense of relief and prevent restlessness among younger passengers.
Make sure you know your rights: Take some time to learn about the passenger rights laws that apply in the area where you'll be traveling. Depending on the situation, the airline may owe you compensation or services like food and shelter. To find out exactly what you're entitled to, check out the comprehensive guide on the Which! website. If your flight is canceled because the airline's employees are on strike, you'll likely be eligible for compensation unless you were notified of the cancellation two weeks in advance. But if the cancellation is due to strikes by airport staff, border control, or air traffic control workers, it's considered an "extraordinary circumstance." In this case, you should receive a refund or be rebooked, but you won't be entitled to any compensation.
Keep calm and be patient. Keep in mind that the strike is not only out of your control, but also out of the airline customer service representative’s control. Being upset won’t make the situation better, especially since staff members have probably experienced difficult customers throughout the day. Instead of getting worked up, try to remain calm and treat airline staff and passengers with respect. Being kind and understanding can make a big difference in a tough situation.
When planning your next trip, it's important to take into account the possibility of unforeseen circumstances that may disrupt your travels. If this is a concern for you, it may be wise to invest in travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, interruptions or delays caused by strikes or labour disputes. Before purchasing a policy, carefully read the terms and conditions to fully understand what is covered and what is not. When booking a package holiday, make sure your flights are ATOL protected, as this will provide financial protection in case of emergency. Keep in mind that strike-related delays can be unpredictable, and that it may take time to resolve the situation. Stay positive, flexible, and focused on your safety and well-being.
