Missing a flight can happen even to the most prepared of passengers – but what are your rights if you find yourself stuck on the wrong side of the departure gate at Heathrow Airport? The short answer is that it depends on the circumstances.
The first step to take in any situation is to contact your airline, either by phone or in person at check-in or the gate. Representatives will be able to talk you through your options and give you information about the next available flights.-ADVERTISEMENT-https://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.516.0_en.html#goog_1012473766https://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.516.0_en.html#goog_1012473768https://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.516.0_en.html#goog_1012473770https://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.516.0_en.html#goog_1012473772
It is always best to inform the airline of issues as early as possible. Although you will find much greater flexibility if you can change or cancel your flight soon after booking it, there are still options available if you miss your plane on the day. These depend on the reason why you were late.
Read more: What are the parking and drop-off options at Heathrow Terminal 3?
What if I missed my flight and it was my fault?
Failing to make a flight because you overslept or spent too much time in the shops are not reasonable excuses for your airline to put you on the next plane for free, according to holiday company TravelSupermarket. You will probably have to book a seat on the next available flight, either paying the full amount or a “missed departure” fee, depending on the airline.
Travel insurance companies will be unlikely to pay out without a valid reason, which these are almost certainly not. A successful claim will require you to demonstrate you did everything in your control to get to the gate on time, such as providing them with a parking stub that marks your arrival at the airport with a time and date.
What if I missed my flight because of an event outside my control?
Airlines tend to be more understanding if you missed a flight for reasons outside your control, such as suffering a flat tyre on the journey to the airport. Try to call up as soon as possible to notify them of any issues.
TravelSupermarket says there are plenty of stories of travellers who managed to negotiate their way onto a flight for little-to-no extra cost – the consensus being that politeness can go a long way. Travel insurance companies will likely deem a situation such as this a valid reason for a successful claim.
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