World Nomads issues travel insurance advice before upcoming strike action

Strikes by French unions in Alpine resorts, Spanish air traffic controllers and UK Border Force officers are expected to affect the February half-term holidays.

Global travel insurance company, World Nomads has explained whether travel insurance covers consumers for disruption caused by industrial action.

Jonathan Frankham, World Nomads General Manager UK and Europe, said: “February half-term is the first peak travel period of 2023 – so these strikes have been timed to cause maximum disruption for travellers. But with the right preparation and understanding of travel insurance coverage, UK travellers can minimise disruption and make the most of their holiday.

“Travel insurance bought at the time of booking a trip may provide coverage if a trip is cancelled or curtailed before departure, but travellers need to carefully check terms, conditions, limitations, and exclusions in the policy wording.

“If you think your travel plans might be affected by a strike, you should first contact your travel provider to check if you will be impacted. If you need to change your travel arrangements, they may be able to help.”

Dealing with the disruption

World Nomads explained that if a Certificate of Insurance was issued before the time and day that the strike was announced, travellers may be covered for strike-related events that impact their travel plans. However, policies purchased afterwards may not offer cover, as the strike would be considered a ‘known event’.  

Travellers are advised to contact their airline or tour operator to check for potential impacts and to change travel arrangements where necessary.

In the event of a claim, it is important to take all steps to reduce the cost of the claim and provide all supporting documentation of the event and incurred expenses where necessary.

To minimise disruption, travellers could check in online before arriving at the airport and allow more time to arrive and pass through airport security can help save time and reduce potential waiting times, particularly with the increase in passenger numbers expected over the half-term period. Where possible, the use of eGates is preferable as it can also alleviate further delays for other passengers.

Travellers are also advised to consider that other ad hoc events can have further impacts on delay time, such as adverse weather conditions.