As a result of the COVID 19 pandemic many countries have either closed their borders or imposed restrictions. For example, in the case of the US a travel ban for all passengers from the Schnegen countries was imposed, but that was quickly superseded by one covering all European countries.
Airlines are struggling to handle the massive increase in call volumes, as well as a situation that is constantly changing.
With that in mind here are a few simple tips if you’re meant to be travelling at anytime over the next few weeks.
Those travel plans might be cancelled or postponed which is completely understandable.
- Check your airline or travel agent’s website for updates.
- Check your airline’s social media outlets they’re often updated more frequently than websites
- If you aren’t scheduled to fly within the next 72 hours wait – the airlines call centres are very busy dealing with people whose flights are in the next 24 – 48 hours
- Most airlines have waived the fees for changing flights, so if you need to postpone your travel plans or switch to an earlier return flight you won’t be penalised. NB: you will have to pay the potential fare difference
At Dublin Airport the pre-clearance for flights to the US is seeing significant delays.
The Irish government has also warned that flights to and from many destinations will not be guaranteed from later this week.
Most of the major airlines have announced that they will be drastically reducing their flight schedule over the coming weeks, with some cutting up to 90% of flights, as well as things like the new EU-wide travel restrictions that have just been announced this afternoon.
If you are trying to get in touch with the airline or travel agent be patient. They’re dealing with an unprecedented situation and will try their best to assist you.
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