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Flights Disruption Chaos Across Europe

19/04/2010

It is estimated that over 1 million British travellers have been left stranded by the closure of UK and European airports as a result of the volcanic ash cloud that has been hovering over European air space since last Thursday.

NATS, the UK’s leading air traffic controller has advised that the current restrictions will remain in place till at least 01.00 local time on Tuesday 20th April.

The CEO of IATA, who represent over 280 of the world’s leading airlines has openly criticised European Governments’ blanket ban on all flights, saying that it is costing the airline industry over $200 million a day in lost revenues and billions in losses to Europe’s economy. He called for an urgent reassessment of the situation and a phased opening of air space. "Governments must reopen airspace based on data that tell us it is safe. If not all airspace, at least some corridors. Governments must improve the decision-making process with facts ….. not theory," he urged.

Meanwhile insurance companies are assessing how to deal with unprecedented levels of potential claims, advising passenger stranded to contact their airlines for information. One thing is certain; many people’s insurance will not cover disruption caused by volcanic eruption but that each policy will need to be judged individually.

Airlines have legal obligations that are in brief to provide a refund or an alternative flight, accommodation, food and two free telephone calls when a passengers flight is cancelled. This obligation is without an end date.

Travel insurance may step in if passengers cannot claim from the airline. Some insurers have categorically refused to pay on the basis this is a natural disaster whilst others as it is weather!

Under the Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act, tickets bought using a credit card are covered by the principle of consequential loss whereby if the goods purchased are not delivered; compensation will be available for the lost flight and all resulting costs such as hotels. The test of reasonableness is applied.

It is virtually certain that airlines and insurance companies will seek any opportunity to avoid paying compensation. Even if they do not refuse outright the time and effort to collate and chase up the processing of a claim will put many busy individuals off.

buy: time is already acting for existing customers assisting with repatriation and processing insurance claims and have centralised this. Why not take advantage of our knowledge and efficiency to prepare and chase up your claim by contacting buy: time on info@buy-time.co.uk or telephoning us on 0870 486 2624. Alternatively speak to your own PA regarding this matter.

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