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ABI issues advice on volcanic eruptions

Cherry Reynard
Written By:
Cherry Reynard
Posted:
Updated:
01/09/2014

The ABI has issued advice to travellers concerned about possible disruption to their travel plans from the volcanic activity in Iceland.

The insurance association recommends people contact the airline, travel agent or airport for the latest information about travel arrangements. If the flight is cancelled, airlines should offer either a full refund of the unused ticket or an alternative flight. EU based airlines are required to offer accommodation and meals if passengers encounter delays in getting home to the UK.

The association says that if the flight is cancelled and passengers do not travel, and if their travel policy does not cover volcanic ash disruption, insurers may refund the premium for single trip travel insurance or swap it to an alternative flight at a later date.

Following the ash cloud disruption in April 2010, it has been possible to buy travel insurance that specifically covers cancellation, delay and curtailment due to ash cloud disruption. With these policies, an insurer is likely to pay for reasonable travel and accommodation expenses that can’t be claimed elsewhere if the flight is significantly delayed or cancelled due to a volcanic eruption or other natural disaster.

Travel insurance is designed to cover passengers against events that could not reasonably have been foreseen when the policy was taken out. If the policy covers volcanic ash disruption and cover was taken out before any warnings or volcanic eruption, passengers should be covered, but if warnings of volcanic activity were in place, passengers will need to check with their travel insurer.

Aidan Kerr, the ABI’s Head of Travel said: “Travel insurance is designed to work alongside, and not duplicate, any compensation you are entitled to from your airline or tour operator. Travel insurers will respond as quickly as possible to any claims to ensure that the disruption caused to travellers is minimised.”