BRITS trying to head abroad this week have been warned to expect “possible disruption” due to flight problems.
Jet2 has issued a warning on their website, just days before thousands are expected to travel abroad for the Easter weekend.
AlamyA holiday warning is in place for Brits heading to Madeira this year[/caption]
AlamyJet2 has warned passengers[/caption]
Any passengers heading to the island of Madeira could face disruption due to bad weather.
The Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) has warned of “intense rain or showers” during the Easter week from March 28-31.
Wind speeds of up to 62mph are also being warned of in certain parts of the country.
One report even says there is a chance of snow as soon as Friday following a temperature drop.
In response, Jet2 has told passengers: “We’re sorry to tell you that flights departing and arriving into Madeira (Funchal) are delayed due to adverse weather conditions.
“If you’re affected, please keep checking your mobile phone for text messages and emails for latest updates.
“We’d like to thank you for your patience and understanding at this time.”
They added that it was “rare for a schedule to be disrupted” in this way and that their operations team were working to reduce any inconvenience to passengers.
Earlier this week, 37 flights were cancelled due to the bad weather, affecting Ryanair, easyJet, TUI and British Airways passengers, as well Jet2 flights.
Hundreds of passengers were affected, with many diverted to the Canary Islands and forced to stay at the airport overnight.
The tiny Portuguese island often faces problems with flights being unable to land due to the high winds it often faces.
Back in January, passengers on a TUI flight faced a 61-hour journey after departing from Manchester when the plane was unable to land.
It eventually had to land on the nearby island of Porto Santo, before further bad weather took the flight to Tenerife.
Brits are also being warned to expect problems at London Heathrow during Easter, due to strike action.
The PSC union, who represent border staff at passport control and immigration, could walk out as early as April 8 – in the middle of the Easter break.
GettyAirlines such as TUI have already been affected by flight problems in Madeira this week[/caption]
However, a Home Office spokesperson said: “We have robust plans in place to minimise any delays from planned strike action.”
And UK travellers are being warned that car journeys could take twice as long, with as as many as 14million expected to try and getaway this Easter.
The worst traffic is expected to be between 2pm and 7pm on Thursday, as well as on Good Friday between 11am and 3pm.
RAC Breakdown spokesperson Alice Simpson said: “With Easter falling earlier than usual at the start of the school holidays, it could be ‘carmageddon’ for holidaymakers.
Train travel problems will also include the West Coast Main Line, with engineering works planned, meaning Euston station will be closed expect for Overground services.
GettyJet2 passengers have already faced disruption[/caption]
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.
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