With North Air fuel tanker drivers based at Edinburgh Airport planning to strike for over three weeks, it’s likely several key routes will be directly impacted and flights could be cancelled this Christmas. In light of this, online travel company Travel Republic has issued advice to those who might be affected by these travel disruptions.
Gemma Brown, Head of Commercial at Travel Republic, commented:
“North Air is the only fuel supply company for airlines flying out of Edinburgh Airport making it likely the strike action between December 18th and January 6th could see passengers face cancelled flights.
“If you are flying this festive period, keep an eye on your flight status as you don’t want to get stuck at the airport with no flight. Should your airline cancel your upcoming flight, try to re-book a flight as early in the morning as you can as further delays and cancellations often rise and affect later flights.
“That said, if you’re already at the airport once the flight is cancelled, the best thing you can do is stay calm. There are plenty of options that can make a big difference in approaching a cancelled flight – from preparing alternative options when waiting to speak to staff, to calling up your carrier. The strikes will reduce the number of ground staff available at the airport. Try calling the airline helpline for assistance as they may provide you with an e-credit or voucher, or flexibility to change your travel dates.”
“When speaking to staff, come prepared with your own research about new arrangements as this will help move things quicker along – be prepared to explain what you want as you can insist on a flight on the same day at their expense, however, this may not always be possible with the sudden increase in cancellations. If you are left with having to buy a flight with a rival airline yourself, you can claim the cost of the replacement or request a full refund – depending on which is more expensive.”
