Cheapflights’ advice to strike busters

Cheapflights.co.uk is offering air travellers top tips on how to avoid industrial action should disputes with leading carriers BA and Virgin Atlantic lead to strikes.

Nadine Hallak, Cheapflights travel expert, said: “Strike action doesn’t have to result in cancellations. Airlines are aware of the disruption it causes, and will be taking measures so that most of the travelling public will remain unaffected.

“It’s important not to panic, and continue with bookings. The key is to note which routes are affected as well as exploring alternative routes, and knowing what steps to take to ensure you’re covered in the event of a strike,”

Cheapflights Top 5 Top Tips for coping with strikes are:

1. Choose dates carefully. For short haul travel, if possible, avoid booking in the days surrounding strike dates as even if you do fly, you may experience delays. As such, it’s best to avoid travel one or two days prior to and after the strike dates.

2. Don’t expect the royal treatment. Don’t necessarily expect a full service if flying when potential strikes are planned. BA strike-hit flights will not be offering full services as they will rely on volunteer staff.

3. Check your cover. Insurance policies vary widely in terms of strike cover. Many won’t protect you to change a flight after strike dates are announced and some not even after a strike ballot is announced, so we fully recommend you check your policy before booking.

4. Keep your ticket. If a strike affects your flight, your money is protected if you have a ticket or an Atol receipt.

5. Long-haul is safe. You will not be affected if flying long-haul, even on the day of a potential strike. BA is vowing to run 100% of long-haul flights during any potential strike action.