Gatwick Airport’s South Terminal faced a disruption due to a suspected prohibited item found in luggage, causing passengers to face delays and cancellations. The incident led to passengers being stranded on planes and in the airport, with Sussex Police sending an explosive ordnance disposal team as a precaution. While the situation has been resolved, there are still ongoing delays and cancellations at the airport.
Passengers affected by flight delays or cancellations have certain rights under UK law. If your flight departs from or arrives at a UK airport on a UK or EU airline, or arrives at an EU airport on a UK airline, you are covered by UK law. In cases of significant delays, airlines are required to provide care and assistance to passengers. This includes food and drink, communication means, accommodation if re-routed the next day, and transport to and from accommodation or home. These provisions must be offered regardless of the cause of the delays.
During major disruptions, airlines may not be able to arrange care and assistance for all passengers directly. In such cases, passengers can organize these necessities themselves and claim the cost back from the airline later by keeping receipts. It is important to spend reasonably and not expect reimbursement for luxury expenses.
If a flight is cancelled, passengers are entitled to a refund or booking on an alternative flight. Refunds are applicable for unused parts of the ticket, and passengers can receive a full refund for return tickets if one leg is cancelled. Passengers can also request a flight back to their original departure point if their connecting flight is cancelled.
In the event of a cancellation, airlines must find passengers an alternative flight as soon as possible. If another airline offers an earlier flight, negotiation with the airline is necessary to be booked on that flight. In cases of last-minute cancellations, passengers are advised to contact the airline helpline for assistance and potential compensation.
Compensation for flight delays over three hours is only applicable if the delay is the airline’s fault. Disruptions caused by extraordinary circumstances are not eligible for compensation according to the UK Civil Aviation Authority. Passengers affected by flight delays or cancellations at Gatwick Airport should be aware of their rights and ensure they receive the necessary care, assistance, and compensation as provided by law.