Expert tips on dealing with the dreaded flight delays
After a significant number of flights have been cancelled and delayed because of the malfunctioning of air traffic control systems, Jonathan Merry, who is the CEO of MoneyTransfers.com, has prepared some suggestions to deal with future flight delays.
To make sure you're up-to-date on the latest developments regarding the strike, take advantage of a few handy tips. One is to set up alerts on Google for keywords related to the strike or flights. This way, you'll get an email whenever new information is announced. Another option is to check the airline or airport's website and social media. Often, this is where you'll find the most up-to-date information about the strike. If you need more specific information, customer service might be able to help, but be prepared to wait on hold for a while, as many people are in the same boat.
It is important to plan in advance when traveling. Do not delay until you reach the airport to check the situation. Check news websites for information on upcoming strikes. If you plan to travel to or from the airport by train, look out for any scheduled rail strikes that could also affect your journey. Keep in mind that if your flight passes through French airspace, you may be impacted by the French air traffic controller strikes, even if you are not traveling to France. It is always a good idea to think of alternative plans just in case.
Make sure to give yourself more time than you think you need. Think about the possibility of experiencing long lines or a lot of traffic on your way to the airport. Even if the airline you are flying with is not having problems due to strikes, other airlines might be, causing delays and a backlog at customs. Getting to the airport early will give you the adequate amount of time to manage any problems that may come up unexpectedly.
Get in touch with the airline: Although you may have to wait in line behind other customers to speak with a customer service representative, contacting the airline directly is the most effective method to determine all available options. The airline could offer to book you on another flight or provide alternative means of transportation. Keep in mind that airline representatives are probably dealing with many unhappy customers, so being polite can go a long way.
To avoid chaos caused by strikes at Heathrow Airport on weekends from June to August, it's best to explore other airport options such as Gatwick, City, Stansted, or Luton. If French air traffic control strikes are affecting your travel plans to Dordogne, consider using alternative transportation like ferry or Eurostar. Check airline route maps as some airlines may take alternate routes to avoid French airspace. Different UK airports also have different routes, with northern airports usually flying through Spain and southern airports going through France.
If you are travelling with young children, spending the night on the airport floor is not a realistic choice. Therefore, keep in mind that if your flight is delayed or cancelled due to a strike, you may need to search for accommodation. Ask the airline if you are eligible for lodging support or compensation. You can also find hotels close by and book your own lodging if necessary, but remember to keep receipts as evidence for your travel insurance claim.
Try to bring important things with you: It's a good idea to have a small bag with you that has important things in it in case you have to stay at the airport for a long time. This is especially important if you have babies or young children with you. You might want to put toiletries, medicine, extra clothes, and enough diapers and formula for a long time in the bag. Giving younger passengers things to do, like a tablet or coloring book, can help keep them from getting bored and frustrated.
Make sure you know your rights when it comes to air travel. Take some time to understand the laws in the country or region you'll be traveling to. You might be eligible for reimbursement or help from the airline, like a place to stay or food. A good resource to check out is the website Which!, which has useful information on what you can claim. If your flight gets cancelled because of airline worker strikes, you can receive compensation - unless you get told about it at least two weeks before your trip. But if the cancellation is due to airport staff, border force, or air traffic control striking, that is considered an "extraordinary circumstance." You can still get your money back or be put on another flight, but you won't be able to claim any extra compensation.
Keep your cool and be patient: Keep in mind that the strike is not something you or the airline customer representative can control. Losing your temper won't make things go any faster and staff members have probably been dealing with angry customers all day. Instead, try to remain composed and treat airline staff and your fellow passengers with respect. Being kind and understanding can make a big difference in a difficult situation.
When planning your trip, it's a good idea to think about getting travel insurance. This is especially important if you're someone who travels a lot or if you're worried about things like flight cancellations, delays, or interruptions. Look for insurance policies that cover these kinds of situations, as well as any strikes or other labour disputes that might cause problems. Make sure you read the policy details carefully so you understand what's covered and what's not. If you're booking a package holiday, make sure it's ATOL protected so that your flights are covered in case of an emergency. Keep in mind that flight delays due to strikes can be unpredictable and may take some time to resolve. Stay flexible and positive, and focus on your safety and well-being.
