Holidaymakers with flights booked for the coming months could face disruption as airlines look to cut costs amid soaring aviation fuel prices. Ryanair and easyJet are among the airlines reducing their winter schedules, with easyJet announcing plans to remove a further 700,000 seats from its timetable.
The rising cost of fuel has put pressure on airlines, with the price of aviation fuel in Europe reportedly reaching $196 (£147) per barrel this week, compared with less than $100 (£75) at the beginning of the year.
What are my rights if my flight is cancelled?
Under UK and EU passenger rights rules, if your flight is cancelled, the airline must offer you a choice between a refund and alternative travel arrangements. You can choose to receive a full refund, including the return leg of your journey if it was booked as part of the same booking. Refunds should generally be paid within seven days.
Alternatively, you can ask to be rebooked on another flight to your destination, either at the earliest opportunity or at a later date that suits you, subject to the applicable rules. If you still want to go on holiday, it is worth checking your options before accepting a refund, as taking the money back means you will no longer be entitled to a replacement flight under that booking.
Can I claim compensation?
Passengers may also be entitled to financial compensation, depending on when they were told about the cancellation and the reason behind it. Under UK rules, compensation can be available if you receive less than 14 days' notice, but it is not automatic. The amount depends on the distance of your flight and the alternative arrangements offered. Compensation can range from £220 for short haul journeys to £520 for long haul flights.
However, airlines do not generally have to pay compensation if a cancellation is caused by extraordinary circumstances outside their control, such as extreme weather or certain air traffic control disruptions. If an airline cancels a flight because of commercial decisions or operating costs, passengers should not automatically assume compensation is excluded. The specific circumstances matter.
Will the airline pay for food and accommodation?
If you are left waiting for an alternative flight, airlines must provide reasonable care and assistance where required. This can include food and drink, accommodation if you need to stay overnight, transport between the airport and hotel and reasonable communication costs. These rights generally apply regardless of the reason for cancellation, including when the airline is not at fault.
If the airline cannot arrange assistance, you may need to organise reasonable meals or accommodation yourself and claim the costs back. Keep all receipts and avoid unnecessary or expensive purchases, as the airline may challenge unreasonable expenses. Although it is important to note that this will only happen if your flight is cancelled while you are in the airport and waiting on the alternative flight that has been provided by the airline.
If your flight is cancelled, contact the airline as soon as possible, check your rebooking options and keep copies of all messages and receipts. You can also check the UK Civil Aviation Authority website for further guidance on your passenger rights.
