2018 is shaping up to be one of the worst years on record for aviation industry strikes in Europe. So far, this year we have seen a 300% increase in strikes in France versus 2017 and to date this year, we have experienced 24 strike days causing 5,000 flight cancellations (corporate.ryanair.com).
PWC showed that the economic cost of aviation industry strikes in the EU between 2010-2017 was €13.4 billion (pwc.co.uk). Furthermore, the European Commission said in 2017 that, since 2005 there have been approx. 357 aviation industry strikes in the EU (a4e.eu).
Multitrip.com, Ireland’s leading travel insurance provider, highlights the critical importance of the right travel cover. A recent survey carried out amongst their Irish customers found that over 34%, or 1 in 3 people, feel that covering strikes is now one of the most important factors for them when taking out travel insurance.
Ciaran Mulligan, MD of Multitrip.com said: “Holidaymakers & business travellers throughout Europe may face travel chaos over the next few days and weeks due to the latest round of aviation industry strike action. It is important that holidaymakers are aware of what they are covered for in the event of strike action. European airlines are obliged to refund or rearrange flights but do not cover customers for lost accommodation costs where the consumer has not travelled or if the customer wants to return earlier with another airline”.
Ciaran added: “Should an airline cancel, delay, or even redirect your flight after take-off for any reason including strike, ‘Travel Disruption Cover’ gives Holidaymakers added security and peace of mind that they have sufficient travel cover in place. If your flight is cancelled or delayed for more than 12 hrs, our unique travel disruption cover gives additional cover up to €1,000 for accommodation and travel expenses (including switching airlines) that you might incur or loss out on due to this delay. It also covers cancellation or curtailment charges should the Foreign & Commonwealth Office or World Health Organisation advise against travel to the country or specific area you are travelling to. Furthermore, you can claim up to €1000 in accommodation expenses if you have to be moved from your current location or cut your trip short due of flood, earthquake, volcanic eruption etc. While the current strike action would only be covered if ‘Travel Disruption Cover’ was booked in advance of the announcement, holidaymakers have the opportunity to cover themselves for future unannounced strikes or disruptions.”
