Holidaymakers sold overseas trip packages to travellers hoping to vacation abroad for the school half-term breaks and the Queen’s platinum jubilee bank holidays. However, the airport authority cancelled flights to control the crowd.
Why are airports so busy?
Usually, half-term vacations kick off the summer tourism season. However, due to the pandemic, many are traveling abroad for the first time in two years.
Since the relaxation of all UK Covid travel restrictions and the relaxing of coronavirus test requirements for many EU nations, this week marks the first school holidays in England and Wales.
When many people were unable to vacation due to the lockdown, they saved money, resulting in a surge in demand for international travel.
The fantastic break has resulted in traffic congestion. Over the weekend, long lines of people waiting to cross the Channel formed at the port of Dover. The port has advised passengers that this will be a busy week.
Why are airports struggling to cope with this situation?
There is a staff shortage, and positions at airports are vacant. Many workers decided to either leave their job or changed jobs during the pandemic
Airport staff stated that passengers were using vouchers or credit notes from previously cancelled trips.
Airlines like British Airways and EasyJet recently announced several cancellations as the Covid cases had started rising, which led to the absence of staff members.
EasyJet cancelled an estimated 200 flights to and fro Gatwick.
People with cancelled flights need not panic as they will either be refunded or rerouted with a new flight.
If a passenger cancels the flight within 14 days of travel, they can claim compensation.