EasyJet issues warning for Brits heading to Europe next week with TWO strikes set to spark flight chaos
EASYJET passengers heading to Europe next week have been warned of upcoming walkouts which is set to spark flight chaos.
Brits heading to Italy on Monday, 24 February can expect serious disruptions, as pilots launch a strike between 12pm and 4pm.
Strikes could affect flights, trains and buses.
EasyJet said it plans on continuing operations as usual but told customers to check the status of their flights before arriving at the airport.
The airline said: “We plan to operate our full flying programme but we advise customers travelling on 24 February to check the status of their flights on our Flight Tracker page,
“Or manage their bookings using our disruption portal on our mobile app or website.”
The workers are demanding a hike in pay, following growing frustration over contract renewals that they say haven’t been properly addressed.
Anton Radchenko, an expert in aviation, said the protests could lead to widespread travel chaos across Europe.
If a flight departs later than planned, this will have a “domino effect” causing other flight to take off late too.
He told the Express: “If a flight departs later than planned, this can have a domino effect as far as other flights’ departure slots are concerned – causing them to take off late too.
“Strikes like these can have an impact on flights across the world.”
He added that as the summer months creep in, striking will become more prevalent as it’s a period when industrial action can have a greater impact on operations.
If your flight is cancelled or delayed due to industrial action you may be entitled to compensation.
This comes as Brits flying from Turkey learnt they will finally be able to get hundreds of pounds back in compensation if their flight is delayed.
The new rules apply to Turkish-based airlines like Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines and Sun Express.
Flight compensation rules
What are my rights if my flight is cancelled or delayed?
Under UK law, airlines have to provide compensation if your flight arrives at its destination more than three hours late.
If you’re flying to or from the UK, your airline must let you choose a refund or an alternative flight.
You will be able to get your money back for the part of your ticket that you haven’t used yet.
So if you booked a return flight and the outbound leg is cancelled, you can get the full cost of the return ticket refunded.
But if travelling is essential, then your airline has to find you an alternative flight. This could even be with another airline.
When am I not entitled to compensation?
The airline doesn’t have to give you a refund if the flight was cancelled due to reasons beyond their control, such as extreme weather.
Disruptions caused by things like extreme weather, airport or air traffic control employee strikes or other ‘extraordinary circumstances’ are not eligible for compensation.
Some airlines may stretch the definition of the “extraordinary circumstances” but you can challenge them through the aviation regulator the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Will my insurance cover me if my flight is cancelled?
If you can’t claim compensation directly through the airline, your travel insurance may refund you.
Policies vary so you should check the small print, but a delay of eight to 12 hours will normally mean you qualify for some money from your insurer.
Remember to get written confirmation of your delay from the airport as your insurer will need proof.
If your flight is cancelled entirely, you’re unlikely to be covered by your insurance.
Airlines operating in Turkey must now provide financial compensation when flights are disrupted because of technical or operational reasons.
Passengers on domestic routes that are delayed by more than three hours will be able to claim compensation worth €100 (£82).
Compensation for passengers flying internationally is a little higher.
Depending on the flight distance, holidaymakers will be able to claim either €250 (£207), €400 (£331) or €600 (£497).