ABI puts travel insurers on alert over BA strike

The ABI has issued advice to travellers likely to be affected by the proposed industrial action at British Airways.

The insurer trade body advises people to:

• If you have not already done so, contact British Airways, as they are responsible for flight arrangements, to discuss the options available.
• If you make alternative travel arrangements, then you can normally transfer your travel insurance to cover the new arrangements.
• In the event of your flight going ahead but being delayed, then you may be able to claim under your travel insurance, providing that you booked your travel before the prospect of a strike could have reasonably been foreseen. If any delay forces you to abandon your travel plans, then some travel policies may cover you for a fixed lump sum.
• Cover under travel policies for cancellation in these circumstances can vary. Some policies cover against specific risks such as illness, redundancy, being called to jury service, but not industrial action, while other policies may provide this cover.

The ABI’s director of general insurance and health Nick Starling said: “People affected should speak to BA, who are responsible for flight arrangements and, if necessary, their tour operator or travel agent.

"Where alternative arrangements are made, travel insurance policies can usually be transferred to cover these. Customers should check their travel insurance, and talk to their travel insurer if they need clarification on the extent of cover provided.”