As half term approaches, many families will be looking to get away on holiday. However, with planned strike action happening across some countries, extreme weather conditions expected and high passenger volumes, Gigasure is reminding holidaymakers that there are some factors that could potentially derail your holiday plans if you don’t plan ahead.
Top five factors that could disrupt your holiday plans this October half term:
1. New entry/exit system (ESS)
The introduction of the new entry/exit system (EES) being introduced across European airports this Autumn should make it easier for passengers flying into and out of EU countries to get through airport security. British passport-holders will need to complete their biometrics and fingerprints on their first visit to a country where ESS checks are operating which is likely to cause some hold ups getting through immigration.
2. Transport strikes in Italy
In Italy, strikes are banned from late July to September to minimise disruption to summer holidays, but now that period has passed, unions have announced plans for industrial action which will affect air travel with walk-outs planned on 29th October which could impact holiday makers, particularly those planning to travel through Milan, Florence and Pisa airports.
3. Disruption to baggage handling in Spain
Airports across Spain are being impacted by strikes over labour rights by Azul Handling baggage staff, which is part of the Ryanair Group and handles the bags for the majority of their flights. Although the strikes are scheduled for Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 5am-9am, the knock-on effect means that holidaymakers travelling through Spanish airports should be prepared in case of any delays.
4. High passenger volumes
As with all travel during the school holidays, expect higher numbers of holidaymakers to be travelling to the airport so allow extra time to check bags in and get through security so you don’t run the risk of missing your flight
5. Extreme weather conditions
Recent reports of Storm Alice hitting eastern Spain and the Balearic Islands could cause disruption for anyone planning on travelling to the area. Torrential rain, winds and flash flooding have caused flights and trains to be delayed or cancelled, roads have been flooded and in some cases individuals in affected areas have been forced to evacuate or remain indoors. Elsewhere, parts of Mexico have been impacted with heavy rain, flooding and reports of landslides caused by Storm Raymond.
Ernesto Suarez, travel insurance expert, and CEO of Gigasure, says:
"Holidaymakers heading abroad this half term should plan ahead and give themselves plenty of extra time at the airport, especially when passing through immigration. Arriving early can help avoid the stress of last-minute delays and ensure your holiday starts on the right note.
“If you do miss your flight due to long queues, some travel operators may require you to pay for another flight or make alternative arrangements, which isn’t an ideal start to your holiday. However, many travellers may be able to claim on their travel insurance under ‘missed departure’ or ‘delays caused by official procedures’ so it’s worth checking your policy details in advance.
"Weather can also play a part in holiday disruption. Storms or extreme conditions may affect flights, ferries, or local transport. Before you travel, check your departure airport’s website for the latest updates. While airlines aren’t always able to offer compensation for delays caused by natural events or other circumstances beyond their control, many travel insurance policies provide cover, so it pays to know exactly what your policy includes."
