Volcanic Ash - Travel Delay Claims

Introduction

The news last month that volcanic ash from Iceland was disrupting air travel brings back memories of the eruption of the Icelandic Volcano, Eyjafjallajokul, a year ago, which led to worldwide chaos. Service at many airports across the globe ground to a halt and many passengers were left stranded in foreign countries, while others were unable to set off on planned trips. Passengers looked to airlines and tour operations for reimbursement of their expenses and the purpose of this article is to consider whether airlines and tour operators have an obligation to compensate their passengers and, if so, the extent of that obligation.

The obligations on airlines are distinct from those on tour operators and the legal position will differ depending on whether the cancelled flight was outbound or inbound and the country from which it departed.