Millions of holidaymakers are set to travel again following two years of disruption from the Covid-19 pandemic. Those who have not travelled since restrictions were first imposed may find the widespread resumption of travel to be quite overwhelming.
For many, it will seem such a long time since they have managed to jet away. So, the UK Civil Aviation Authority is providing advice to remind consumers of their rights and helping them get back to hassle-free holidays.
For essential booking advice to top tips to make the whole experience run as smoothly as possible, the CAA guidelines set out to help passengers understand their travel rights. A spokesperson for UK Civil Aviation Authority said: “As recovery from the pandemic continues and holidays abroad increase, we want to make sure consumers know their rights and are equipped with the knowledge they need to get back to hassle-free holidays.”
Here are the CAA travel tips:
- Book an ATOL protected holiday for extra financial protection. ATOL protection means means you’ll get support and financial help in the unlikely event your travel company stops trading.
- If your flight is delayed your airline has a duty of care to look after you. This can include providing food and drink, as well as accommodation if you are delayed overnight.
- For special assistance , make your airline aware and arrive early at the airport. Staff at accessibility points will help travellers with reduced mobility with their journeys. More information can be found here.
- Check your baggage allowance and contents to avoid unexpected fees or having to give up personal goods. Airlines will have weight allowances for luggage, and safety restrictions at airports limit the amount of liquids allowed onboard and prohibit certain items.
- Lost, delayed or damaged luggage is the responsibility of the airline and the amount of compensation you should receive will depend on the value of what you have lost. Most airlines will reimburse you for the bare essentials you need to buy when your bag is delayed. More information can be found here.
- Remember to check Covid-19 restrictions at your destination.
- If your flight is cancelled you should be offered a choice of refund or offered alternative travel arrangements at the earliest opportunity. This can include flights on other airlines, or a new flight at a later date at the passenger's convenience.
- If you have complained to an airline and are not happy with the response you can contact the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) service. Where an airline is not signed up to the ADR service, passengers can escalate their concern to the UK Civil Aviation Authority’s Passenger Advice and Complaints Team.
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