Chaos has ensued at Heathrow and Gatwick Airports as flights were grounded this afternoon due to an air traffic control issue. Despite the radar problem now being fixed, the closure of the airspace will have a knock-on effect for the rest of today and into tomorrow for the thousands of tourists who likely now face delays and cancellations.
Passengers hoping to return to London have also been affected, alongside regional airports such as Manchester. Below, is a guide curated to help you know what to do in this situation.
My flight is delayed: what support am I entitled to?
If you are delayed by three or more hours, the airline must provide you with food and drink, which often comes in the form of a voucher. If your delay goes overnight, you must be given accommodation and transport to it. If a major disruption breaks out, you will likely have to make your own arrangements and claim back the cost. Receipts are essential—remember to keep hold of them.
My flight is cancelled: what support am I entitled to?
Your airline must offer you a full refund or a seat on an alternative flight if your flight is to or from a UK or EU airport (or with a UK/EU airline) and it is, at short notice, cancelled.
Can I get compensation if my flight is delayed?
If the airline is at fault you will be entitled to a set amount depending on the duration of the delay. However, not all delays are within the airlines’ control, so be aware of that. Compensation is not payable in “extraordinary circumstances” such as third-party IT problems, war or civil unrest, air traffic control restrictions, a medical emergency on board, security issues, natural disasters, extreme weather and certain crew issues.
Can I claim if a shorter delay means I miss a connecting flight?
Yes you can, as long as all the flights are made under the same booking reference and the connection is made at an EU airport.
How long do I have to make my claim?
You can claim for eligible flights within the past six years.
The airline has offered me vouchers as compensation. What should I do?
It is your choice whether to accept them or not, but the regulation states that the airline should pay compensation in cash.
An airline has rejected my claim because of ‘extraordinary circumstances’. What do I do next?
Double-check that you have a case by reading through the CAA’s Delays and Cancellations information.
Does travel insurance cover delays?
You should look into your specific quote. Some travel insurance policy will offer compensation for certain delays, though in most cases, it is likely to be a low amount.
What about other arrangements I have paid for?
The airline is not liable for any further arrangements, such as if you have booked a hire car or a hotel.