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A widespread IT outage has caused significant disruption across the UK’s rail and aviation systems, leading to delays and cancellations. As the morning progresses, the true extent of the chaos is expected to become clearer. Here is what we know so far.
Impact on Rail Services
A fault with the signaling system between London Kings Cross and Peterborough has led to delays, according to an announcement by London North Eastern Railway (LNER). Train operator TransPennine Express (TPE) has also been affected by the IT outage. Passengers are being urged to purchase tickets onboard if they are unable to do so at stations.
These disruptions are causing significant inconvenience for commuters and travelers alike, with many facing uncertainty about their journeys. The signaling fault, in particular, has a substantial impact on the rail network, causing bottlenecks and delays on one of the busiest routes in the country.
Airport Disruptions
Airports across the UK are grappling with the fallout from the IT outage. London Stansted Airport reported that some airline check-in services are being conducted manually. Despite this, flights are still operating normally. Edinburgh Airport noted that the IT issues are causing longer waiting times for passengers.
An image posted on social media showed long queues at Luton Airport, with the accompanying caption stating that a “system failure” was causing “massive queues.” This highlights the widespread nature of the problem and the frustration it is causing for travelers.
Departure and arrival boards at major airports, including Heathrow and Gatwick, indicate numerous delays this morning. However, so far, there have been few cancellations directly linked to the IT issues. The Mirror has reached out to major rail and airline operators for further updates on the situation.
Guidance for Travelers
If you are traveling this morning, whether for a holiday, work, or other reasons, it is crucial to check the status of your specific flight or train. Airlines and rail operators are providing updates online, and it is advisable to contact their customer service departments if you need further information.
Ryanair has acknowledged that its passengers are facing disruptions. The airline has advised affected passengers that they will be notified and urges all travelers to check the Ryanair app for the latest updates on their flights.
Your Rights if Your Plane is Delayed or Cancelled
Travelers are entitled to compensation under certain circumstances if their flight is delayed or canceled. Here are the key points to know:
Delay Duration: Compensation is available if your flight is delayed by more than three hours past the original arrival time. The delay is measured until the door of the plane opens at your destination.
Flight Origin: The flight must take off from the UK or European Union, or be operated by an airline based in these regions. Connected flights are covered if booked as one trip, even if a non-EU airline is involved partway through the journey.
Airline Responsibility: The delay or cancellation must be within the control of the airline. Weather or air-traffic control disputes are not covered, but technical issues with the plane, staffing problems, and overbooking are.
Circumstances Requiring Compensation: Airlines must compensate for avoidable delays, including faults with the plane, under-staffing, striking pilots or cabin crew, overbooking, and issues with the airline’s own systems, such as computer or boarding problems.
Given the current situation, it is likely that the IT issues fall under circumstances requiring compensation. However, travelers may need to be prepared to argue their case with the airline.
Preparing for Your Journey
Given the ongoing disruptions, travelers should take the following steps:
Check Updates Regularly: Keep checking the status of your flight or train online. Many airlines and rail operators provide real-time updates on their websites and apps.
Arrive Early: If you are flying, arrive at the airport well ahead of your scheduled departure time to account for potential delays at check-in or security.
Stay Informed: Follow social media channels of your airline or rail operator for the latest news and updates.
Know Your Rights: Be aware of your rights regarding compensation if your travel plans are significantly disrupted.
Will Airlines Reimburse for Delays?
Understanding whether airlines will reimburse for delays depends on several factors, including the cause of the delay, the length of the delay, and the specific airline’s policies. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the circumstances under which you might be eligible for compensation and reimbursement.
Key Factors for Reimbursement
Length of Delay:
Less than 3 Hours: Generally, no compensation is provided for delays under three hours.
More than 3 Hours: If your flight is delayed by more than three hours past the original arrival time, you may be entitled to compensation. The delay duration is calculated until the plane door opens at your destination.
Flight Origin and Airline:
Flights that take off from the UK or European Union, or flights operated by airlines based in these regions, are covered under EU Regulation 261/2004. This includes connected flights booked as a single trip, even if a non-EU airline is involved for part of the journey.
Reason for Delay:
Within Airline’s Control: Airlines are generally required to compensate for delays caused by issues within their control, such as technical faults, staffing problems, or overbooking.
Outside Airline’s Control: Delays caused by extraordinary circumstances like severe weather, political instability, security risks, or air traffic management decisions are typically not eligible for compensation.
Specific Compensation Details
EU Regulation 261/2004
Passengers on flights covered by EU Regulation 261/2004 may be entitled to the following compensation for delays:
Delays of 3 Hours or More: Compensation ranges from €250 to €600 depending on the flight distance.
€250 for flights of 1,500 km or less.
€400 for intra-EU flights of more than 1,500 km and for all other flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km.
€600 for all other flights.
Rights to Care
In addition to financial compensation, airlines must provide care and assistance during the delay, which includes:
Meals and Refreshments: Proportional to the waiting time.
Accommodation: If an overnight stay is necessary.
Transport: Between the airport and the accommodation.
Communication: Two free telephone calls, emails, or faxes.
How to Claim Compensation
Contact the Airline: Submit a claim directly to the airline’s customer service department. Include details of your flight, the nature of the delay, and any receipts for expenses incurred due to the delay.
Keep Records: Retain all documents related to your flight, such as boarding passes, tickets, and receipts for any additional expenses.
Use a Claims Service: If dealing with the airline directly proves difficult, there are third-party services that can assist with claiming compensation. These services typically charge a fee or a percentage of the compensation received.
Common Scenarios and Their Outcomes
Technical Faults
If a flight is delayed due to a technical fault with the aircraft, the airline is usually responsible for compensation, as maintaining the aircraft is within their control.
Staffing Issues
Delays caused by staffing issues, such as pilots or cabin crew being unavailable, are generally within the airline’s control, making compensation likely.
IT Outages
If an IT outage is caused by the airline’s own systems, passengers are likely to be entitled to compensation. However, if the outage is due to third-party services or widespread external technical failures, the situation may be more complex, and passengers may need to argue their case.
Weather Conditions
Delays due to severe weather are considered extraordinary circumstances, and airlines are not typically required to compensate passengers.
Preparing for Your Journey During Disruptions
Check Flight Status: Regularly check the status of your flight online or via the airline’s app.
Arrive Early: Allow extra time at the airport to navigate potential delays at check-in or security.
Stay Informed: Follow the airline’s social media channels and subscribe to notifications for real-time updates.
Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights under EU Regulation 261/2004 and other relevant legislation.
While airlines are required to compensate passengers for delays that are within their control, there are many nuances and conditions that affect eligibility. By understanding your rights and preparing adequately, you can navigate the complexities of travel disruptions and ensure you receive any compensation due to you. If your flight has been delayed, contact your airline promptly, keep all related documentation, and be prepared to advocate for your rights if necessary.
How to Check Flight Status
When traveling, staying informed about your flight status is crucial, especially during disruptions like IT outages or other unforeseen events. Here are several methods you can use to check the status of your flight:
Airline Websites and Mobile Apps
Most airlines provide real-time flight status updates on their websites and mobile apps. Here’s how you can use them:
Website:
Visit the airline’s official website.
Look for a section labeled “Flight Status” or “Check Flight Status.”
Enter your flight number or route (departure and arrival airports and date).
View the latest information on your flight’s status.
Mobile App:
Download the airline’s official mobile app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
Log in or access the flight status section.
Enter your flight number or route.
Enable notifications for real-time updates.
Airport Websites
Airports often provide information on the status of all flights arriving and departing from their terminals. Here’s how you can use these resources:
Visit the airport’s official website:
Navigate to the “Arrivals” or “Departures” section.
Search for your flight by flight number or destination.
Check the latest status updates.
Flight Tracking Websites and Apps
There are several independent flight tracking websites and apps that provide real-time updates. Some popular options include:
FlightAware:
Website: FlightAware
Mobile App: Available on iOS and Android
FlightRadar24:
Website: FlightRadar24
Mobile App: Available on iOS and Android
FlightStats:
Website: FlightStats
Mobile App: Available on iOS and Android
To use these services:
Visit the website or download the app.
Enter your flight number or route details.
View live updates, including delays, cancellations, and estimated arrival times.
Notifications and Alerts
Many airlines and flight tracking apps offer push notifications and alerts. Here’s how to set them up:
Airline Apps:
Enable notifications in the app settings.
Opt-in for flight status alerts when booking your ticket or managing your booking.
Third-Party Apps:
Download the app and create an account if required.
Enable notifications for specific flights.
Receive real-time updates on your phone or email.
Contacting the Airline
If you’re unable to access the internet, you can still check your flight status by:
Calling the Airline:
Find the customer service number for your airline (available on their website or your booking confirmation).
Provide your flight number or booking details to the representative.
Ask for the latest status of your flight.
Visiting the Airport Information Desk:
Go to the information desk at the airport.
Ask the staff for updates on your flight.
Tips for Checking Flight Status
Check Frequently: Flight status can change rapidly, especially during disruptions. Check for updates regularly.
Enable Notifications: Use airline or third-party apps to receive instant updates on your flight status.
Have Backup Plans: In case of significant delays or cancellations, know your alternatives, such as later flights or different routes.
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