Manchester Airport has been plunged into chaos after a power cut caused flights to be cancelled and delayed today (Picture: Reuters)
Passengers at Manchester Airport are facing major disruption after a power cut forced two of its three terminals out of action.
Flights have been cancelled from both Terminal 1 and 2, while journeys still going ahead are severely affected by delays.
Those who have seen their flight cancelled will be left wondering what happens now and what their rights are.
We’ve taken a look at exactly what you can do when your flight is cancelled or delayed.
What can you do if your flight has been cancelled? We’ve got you covered with everything you need to know (Picture: MCPIX)
What am I entitled to if they cancel my flight?
When flying to or from the UK, passengers are fairly well protected by UK laws when it comes to flights being cancelled.
Here’s a breakdown of what those rights are, according to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
First of all, airlines must provide you with care and assistance, which includes supplying a reasonable amount of food, drink and means of communication.
This often comes in the way of vouchers to use at shops and restaurants.
If you are re-booked onto a flight the following day, the airline must provide you with accommodation, usually in a nearby hotel, as well as transport to and from the airport.
Even if the delay lasts longer than one day, an airline must still put you up until they are able to provide the service and get you to your destination.
When major disruption hits, airlines sometimes struggle to assist the large number of passengers. If this happens to you, make sure you keep every receipt for everything you paid for until you board your replacement flight.
This must be within reason, such as food, drink and emergency accommodation.
Will I be refunded for a cancelled flight if I no longer wish to fly?
In short, yes.
CAA guidance says: ‘You can get your money back for all parts of the ticket you haven’t used. For instance, if you have booked a return flight and the outbound leg is cancelled, you can get the full cost of the return ticket back from your airline.
‘If you are a transfer passenger and you have already completed part of your journey, you are also entitled to a flight back to your original departure point when your connecting flight is cancelled and you decide not to continue your journey.’
Will I get compensation for a cancelled flight?
This is a bit of a grey area, but the rule of thumb is that if your flight is completely cancelled without 14 days notice, you are entitled to claim compensation.
Each airline will vary in their cancellation policies – and it’s worth checking how it works for the specific airline you are flying with.
The cause of the cancellation can be a loophole for airlines, however. For example, if it wasn’t the airline’s fault, don’t expect to receive any compensation.
The CAA says: ‘Disruptions caused by things …read more
Source:: Metro
