Airline strikes, staff shortages and soaring passenger numbers have created a perfect storm for the travel industry.
Airline strikes, staff shortages and soaring demand for holidays after lockdown have created a perfect storm for the travel industry as it enters its peak period.
In Spain, Ryanair workers have walked out over pay and conditions while EasyJet staff plan nine days of strikes in July.
Meanwhile London Heathrow, the UK’s busiest airport, yesterday forced airlines to axe 30 flights to cope with demand.
These issues are understandably causing concern for Scots jetting off abroad in the coming months.
ABTA spokesman Sean Tipton is keen to reassure worried holidaymakers reading the news that the chance of their flight being cancelled is slim.
“Travel chaos is hitting headlines lately and it’s understandable after years of not being able to go anywhere,” he said.
“People are getting worried about cancelled flights when they should be looking forward to their holiday; the reality is that the number of cancelled flights is actually very small.
“It’s not likely to happen to you, but it could. And you have comprehensive rights if it has been cancelled.”
What are your rights?
For EU-regulated flights that are cancelled, and where “extraordinary circumstances” do not apply, customers can ask for a refund or choose to take an alternative flight.
For medium-haul flights of two to four hours, the delay must be three hours or more to claim compensation, rising to four hours for long-haul journeys.
If the delay lasts longer than five hours, customers may be able to choose between being rerouted or getting a refund.
The airline should offer you an alternative flight under EU law. If, for example, the flight the company offers you is three days later, you’re entitled to ask the company to book you a flight with a different airline.
If you’re overseas and travelling back to Scotland, the same law applies. The airline should pay for your hotel and day-to-day expenses including food and refreshments – such as tea and coffee – but not alcohol.
Sean added: “Sometimes you’re asked to pay for it yourself; so keep receipts and keep costs at a reasonable level. No five-star hotels. Claim the money back when you return home. You will get your money back as this is a legal requirement.”
Source: STV News