Defaqto offers advice over ash cloud

by Richard Kilner

Story link: Defaqto offers advice over ash cloud

Travellers have been urged to check with their insurer regarding coverage for cancellation or delay due to the unprecedented ash cloud that has made British airspace a no-fly zone.

Defaqto, which has offered the advice, also advocates those with an ATOL protected packaged trip to check with their tour operator or travel agent to explore the possible options available to them.

Refunds or rearrangements may be possible for those who booked their own flights, and airlines ought to be contacted to clarify this.

Hotels and car hire bought with credit cards may also be refundable, and travellers ought to check with their card company about this.

Mike Powell, Insight Analyst at Defaqto, has warned that whilst those who have checked in may well be covered many of those who have not checked in (and airports are closed to checking in now) may actually not be, due to many insurers providing coverage on the basis that the traveller has checked in.

The ABI has also issued advice to travellers, stating that volcanic eruptions are not always covered by insruance policies and that coverage will not be available against the ash cloud if insurance is taken out after the situation began.