The aviation regulator has reminded passengers of their delay and cancellation rights ahead of the Easter holidays, as passenger numbers continue to grow by millions.
A total of 276 million passengers flew with UK airports in 2023, which is a rise of 23% on 2022’s figures, according to the UK Civil Aviation Authority’s trend report. This is the third consecutive year the number of flyers has grown too, with passengers gaining confidence in going abroad following the pandemic.
It coincides with the improvement of airlines’ timeliness on flights, with delays for the three months between October and December dropping in length to 18 minutes – three minutes fewer than the same period in 2022.
Flights operating within 15 minutes of their scheduled take-off time also rose by 64% compared to the year before. But those times remain below the 75% levels airlines had before 2019.
With millions more travellers expected to venture abroad in 2024 and Easter time having a history of flight chaos, the regulator has alerted flyers to their rights in case of any delays or cancellations.
Beware – the clocks go forward on Easter Sunday
Meanwhile, if you are flying on Easter Sunday (31 March), it’s worth noting that the clocks go forward into British Summer Time, so make sure your watch and phone have the correct time to avoid missing your flight.
Anna Bowles, head of consumer at the UK Civil Aviation Authority, said: “As passenger demand for flights continues to rise, we want to make sure consumers are protected by equipping them with essential advice and ensuring they are aware of their rights before they go on holiday.
“Whether it’s understanding ATOL protection or knowing what they’re entitled to in the event of delays or cancellations, we want to make sure everyone can enjoy their holidays with confidence and peace of mind.”
Here are your rights to consider when your flights are delayed or you encounter any disruptions during your travels, courtesy of the aviation regulator.
Passengers’ rights when flying with UK airports
Flight disrupted?:
- If your flight is delayed: Your airline has a duty of care to look after you. This can include providing food and drink and accommodation if you are delayed overnight.
- If your flight is cancelled: You should be offered a choice of a refund or alternative travel arrangements at the earliest opportunity or an alternative date suitable for you. This can include flights on other airlines or a new flight at a later date at the passenger’s convenience.
Your flight rights:
- Special assistance: If you require special assistance, make your airline aware and arrive early at the airport. Staff at accessibility points will help travellers with reduced mobility with their journeys. More information can be found on the UK Civil Aviation Authority website.
- Baggage: Check your baggage allowance and contents to avoid unexpected fees or having to give up personal goods. Airlines will have weight allowances for luggage, and safety restrictions at airports may limit the amount of liquid allowed onboard and prohibit certain items.
- Damaged luggage: Lost, delayed or damaged luggage is the responsibility of the airline, and the amount of compensation you should receive will depend on the value of what you have lost. Most airlines will reimburse you for the bare essentials you need to buy when your bag is delayed.
- How to escalate a complaint: If you have complained to an airline and are not happy with the response, you can contact the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) service. Where an airline is not signed up to the ADR service, passengers can escalate their concern to the UK Civil Aviation Authority’s passenger advice and complaints team. The Department for Transport (DfT) also has an Aviation Passenger Charter, which is a guide to the rights and responsibilities of air passengers.
