JET2 has warned passengers about travel delays in popular holiday destinations throughout the next few days, with bad weather causing problems.
Passengers due to fly with the airline either to or from the Eastern Mediterranean, or the Balearic Islands, have been told they could face an “extended wait on board” planes as they wait to take off.
Thunder storms throughout Eastern Europe are causing issues for the budget carrier, which has urged passengers to allow plenty of time to arrive at airports in case of bad road conditions.
The problems are expected to continue between today (Monday, July 1) and Wednesday (July 3).
A statement published on the Jet2 website reads: “We are currently experiencing some Air Traffic Control slot delays on flights that are due to arrive, depart or fly across the Eastern Mediterranean and the Balearic Islands.
“This is due to adverse weather conditions (thunder storms) in many parts of Eastern Europe.
“If you are currently on holiday and experiencing bad weather, please allow plenty of time to get to the airport and allow for potential bad road conditions on route.”
Although all Jet2 flights are currently still operating, according to the airline, it has still warned its customers that delays are expected on flights to and from the specified locations.
Passengers have been told that they will board their flights as close to on time as possible, so they’re ready to take off as soon as the pilot is given clearance from Air Traffic Control.
However, the airline has stated that this could lead to people sitting on the runway waiting to take off.
The statement continued: “We apologise in advance if this causes an extended wait on board before you depart.
“Our Friendly Red Team and Crew will keep you updated.
“Our UK Based Operations team is working hard to minimise disruption to our flying programme, however, you may experience some disruption if you are travelling to/from areas affected.”
Passengers have been urged to sign up for updates by making sure that their contact details are up to date via the ‘Manage My Booking’ section of the Jet2 website.
They have also been advised to check the information on the Jet2 website 12 hours before their flight to make sure nothing has changed.
Anyone due to fly through the affected areas have also been warned that they could be affected.
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.
Jet2’s passengers aren’t the only ones currently facing storm-related disruption, with some long-haul carriers forced to cancel flights.
A weather warning has been put in place across the Caribbean ahead the arrival of Hurricane Beryl, with winds expected to hit 130mph.
In response, Virgin Atlantic has been forced to cancel a number of flights from the UK, including routes from London Heathrow to Barbados and St Vincent.
And British Airways has been forced to cancel flights from London Gatwick to St Lucia and Georgetown as well as London Heathrow to Barbados.
Meanwhile, this is the scary truth about turbulence in the sky.
And this is how you can predict whether or not your flight will be bumpy.
