British Airways has cancelled all flights to Cairo over security concerns. The airline, which operates daily flights from London Heathrow to the Egyptian capital, will not be flying to the region until Sunday 28th July 2019.
Various security checks and assessments will be carried out over the next seven days to establish whether or not it is safe to fly to Cairo. British Airways has announced on its website that the safety and security of its customers and crew is always their priority, and they would never operate an aircraft unless it was safe to do so.
Egypt has a history of aviation threats and attacks. In October 2015 a bomb was planted on a Russian flight, killing everyone on board. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) now advises against all but essential air travel to the popular Egyptian resort Sharm el-Sheik, but no restrictions have yet been made regarding Cairo. The FCO also warns that terror attacks are highly likely throughout Egypt.
Hurghada airport is continuing to operate as normal.
German airline, Lufthansa also suspended flights to Cairo over the weekend.
I have booked my flight with British Airways, what are my rights?
British Airways is offering passengers a choice of a full refund of any used tickets, postponing their trip or flying with another airline. The latter doesn’t guarantee passengers will be able to reach Cairo on their original travel date as demand for this option is likely to be high.
What if I have booked my trip to Egypt and now don’t want to go?
Travel insurance will not cover cancellation claims relating to disinclination to travel.
Those who have booked a package holiday through a tour operator or travel agent may be offered a refund or the option to alter the destination but this will depend on the individual company’s terms and conditions.
What if I have booked my accommodation and am landing later than expected.
If you booked independently you should speak to the company directly. Depending on their terms and conditions you may be able to amend your booking. If this option isn’t available, check your travel insurance policy. Some policies will offer to cover pre-paid expenses if you are unable to reach your destination and follow your pre-booked itinerary.
Can I claim back costs from my travel insurance?
If your travel insurance policy offers cancellation for any cause cover, contact your insurer directly to discuss your options. As long as you paid for your policy before the cancellation was announced a claim will be considered.
