Uncertainty over the conflict in the Middle East has caused widespread disruption to flights. Some airlines have cut flights from their summer schedules and others have hiked fares as airspace closures and jet fuel prices have pushed up their operating costs. Some major UK package holiday providers are cancelling holidays to the Middle East, including trips where the flights pass through affected areas in transit.
Passengers affected have various rights – primarily a refund. However, these can vary depending on which carrier you are flying with and from where. Only when an airline is at fault is extra compensation payable, which is not the case with travel difficulties caused by the current conflict.
When flights are delayed or cancelled, UK and EU airlines, and other carriers when you are departing a UK or EU airport, have a duty to look after you. That includes providing meals and accommodation, if necessary, and getting you to your destination. The airline should organise putting you on an alternative flight, at no extra cost.
If your flight is covered by UK law, your airline must let you choose between either getting a refund or being booked on to an alternative flight. That's regardless of how far in advance the cancellation was made. You can get your money back for any part of the ticket you have not used. If you still want to travel, your airline must find you an alternative flight. If another airline is flying to your destination significantly sooner, or there are other suitable modes of transport, then you have a right to be booked on to that alternative transport instead.
If you are stuck abroad or at the airport because of a flight cancellation, airlines covered by UK legislation must also provide you with other assistance, including a reasonable amount of food and drink, a way for you to communicate, and free accommodation if you have to stay overnight. You are entitled to the same assistance if your flight is delayed by more than two hours for a short-haul flight, three hours for a medium-haul, or four hours for a long-haul. If you are delayed by more than five hours and no longer want to travel, you can get a full refund.
