Despite concerns about travel disruptions this summer, UK holidaymakers are being advised not to cancel their trips too quickly. Doing so could result in financial losses. Consumer watchdog Which? is urging travellers with upcoming bookings to hold off on making any immediate decisions, especially as there are growing worries about the jet fuel crisis and airspace closures in the Middle East.
Since the conflict began in February, several airlines have had to remove routes and reduce flight schedules. Others have introduced additional fees to manage rising operational costs. The situation may become even more challenging, with the International Energy Agency (IEA) warning that Europe has “maybe six weeks or so of jet fuel left,” and passengers should expect possible cancellations from May onwards.
‘If you’re booking a trip soon, or already have a holiday in the diary, you may be feeling worried,’ says Kate Pasola, a Which? expert and travel journalist. ‘But there’s plenty you can do to protect your plans, and your money, starting today.’
Among the things you should avoid doing is cancelling any bookings you’ve already made. According to Kate, this is a major ‘mistake’ because it could mean giving up your right to claim a refund, compensation, or support that might otherwise be available under EC261 rules.
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POLL
Do you plan to change any of your upcoming summer travel bookings due to the current uncertainty?
- No, I’ll wait and see what happens.
- Yes, I’m considering changing or cancelling my plans.
- I’m not sure yet.
Instead of cancelling, Kate advises waiting for the airline to cancel your flight for you before requesting a refund. The same applies to accommodation bookings. Don’t cancel, she says. Get in touch with the host or hotel via the booking platform’s chat function, or give them a call. The provider may be able to offer alternative options or free cancellation, whereas taking matters into your own hands could result in penalties.
What are your rights?
Under EC261 rules, UK passengers may be entitled to assistance or a refund if their flight is cancelled by the airline. However, you lose all protections if you choose to cancel the booking first. For accommodation, refund policies depend on the provider and the terms of the booking. Direct communication may sometimes help travellers secure more flexibility.
With uncertainty still affecting summer travel, Which? suggests staying calm and waiting for official confirmation from airlines or accommodation providers could save holidaymakers money.
What to do if your flights are cancelled or disrupted
Chris Harrington, managing director of travel firm hoppa, says the first step if your flight is cancelled is to contact the airline.
‘If you are already at the airport, head for the airline’s customer service desk to speak to a member of staff,’ he tells.
‘Acting quickly is essential, as available seats on alternative flights may be limited and only available for a short time. However, other people will be in the same position as you, so if you’re met with long queues, try using the airline’s app or ring the customer service team to find out next steps.’
In most cases, the airline will have to make an alternative plan for you. Ask them to rebook you on a later flight, and let them know if there’s an alternative route (or flight using another airline) that works.
Chris also highlights the importance of buying travel insurance as soon as you book, to ‘protect yourself from circumstances such as cancelled flights.’ Some policies will cover the cost of hotels, airport transfers, alternative flights, and food. This is essential since cancellations due to external factors, such as fuel shortages, are typically classed as ‘extraordinary circumstances,’ meaning airlines don’t necessarily have to reimburse directly.
‘If the flight cancellation is due to the actions of the airline, then it’s likely you’ll be entitled to compensation as per ABTA guidelines,’ Chris continues, noting that this amounts to £220 for journeys of 1,500m or less, and up to £520 for anything over this distance.
‘However, in this case, because the cancellation is caused by extraordinary circumstances outside of the airline’s control, compensation is unlikely to apply.’
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