Disruptions, with flight cancellations included, could be a stressful and expensive affair. Travel insurance coverage for cancelled flights is a key concern to get peace of mind. This guide explores the ins and outs of how travel insurance can help when your plans go wrong, including what is generally covered, what’s often excluded and how to claim compensation.
What Travel Insurance Covers for Canceled Flights
Travel insurance also commonly includes cancellation cover, which protects you in the event of a flight cancellation under certain conditions. Here’s a rundown of what’s commonly included and excluded:
Common Inclusions
1. Unforeseen Illness or Injury
If you, a travel companion or a close relative becomes ill or injured, your travel insurance could cover flight cancellations.
2. Natural Disasters
Events such as hurricanes or earthquakes that interfere with travel plans are typically covered.
3. Court Appearances or Jury Duty
If you get called for jury duty or have to testify in court, you should be compensated for your cancelled flight.
4. Redundancy
If your trip is relatively close to you being made redundant from your job, you may still be eligible to claim compensation.
5. Damage to Home
If a fire, flood or burglary strikes your home before your travel, you just might be covered.
Common Exclusions
1. Voluntary Cancellations
Discretionary travel due to personal reasons typically is not covered.
2. Existing Health Condition
And if the reason for cancellation is associated with an existing medical condition that the insurer was not made aware of, chances are it is excluded.
3. Strike Action
Strikes that are organized, unless otherwise covered, may not be reimbursable.
When Are You Entitled to Compensation?
If your flight is cancelled, first identify the reason behind it. Compensation may come from the airline, your travel insurance provider or both, depending on the circumstances.
Airline Compensation
Airlines are generally responsible for cancellations that are within their control, like staffing problems. They may provide:
- A full refund
- Another flight rebooking (Optional)
- If your delay is longer than three hours
Travel Insurance Claims
If your cancellation is due to circumstances that are outside the airline’s control (for example, bad weather or natural disasters), your travel insurance may cover some (or all) of the following:
- Full flight refunds
- Costs of accommodation and transportation
- Prepaid travel expenses
How to Ensure You’re Covered
1. Read the Policy Terms Carefully
As always, check the terms and conditions of your travel insurance to see what is covered.
2. This Backup Provides Extra Cancellation Coverage
If that standard coverage doesn’t seem like enough, you can pay for add-ons or standalone cancellation policies for extra protection.
3. Review Your Credit Card Benefits
If you paid for your flight with a credit card, Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act can provide extra protection, and it doesn’t involve an insurance claim.
How to Make a Claim
To claim reimbursement for cancelled flights, follow these steps:
1. Contact the Airline First
Airlines are generally the first place to go for resolution. Seek compensation or alternative options.
2. Document Everything
Hold on to receipts, flight itineraries and evidence of cancellation to file your claim.
3. But first, file a claim with your insurer
If the airline does not offer compensation, file your documentation with the travel insurance provider.
Final Thoughts
Travel insurance can be a saving grace for cancelled flights, but knowing the particulars of your policy is critical. Review the fine print and compare policies to ensure your coverage meets your needs. Have a plan and you can travel with peace of mind, knowing that you’re covered for unexpected disruptions.
