European Air Update – Volcanic Ash
As air traffic from most European airports commences partial operation, Contiki is providing the following updated information for travelers and travel agents:
- As flights resume operation, most major airlines will first protect those with confirmed reservations on the day in question, then re-accommodate other travelers as standby travelers and/or on extra section flights until everyone is accommodated. This process will most likely take several days to re-accommodate all travelers.
- For returning passengers who are holding air tickets purchased through Contiki, we are working with the airlines to re-protect them and secure return flights at the earliest possible date and time. For returning passengers who did not purchase air tickets through Contiki, we recommend contacting the airlines directly for flight status updates and re-booking on the next available flight. Further, given the airline procedures described above, passengers may also want to go directly to the airport to take advantage of standby seats as they become available, as those seats will go on a first-come, first-served basis.
- For passengers flying to Europe to join a Contiki tour, all tours are operating as scheduled. While Contiki is aware that some air carriers are continuing to offer refunds for passengers choosing not to fly at this time, unless a flight is actually cancelled or otherwise impacted, all of Contiki’s Brochure Cancellation Policies are currently in effect.
- For any passengers whose travel plans have been impacted, please contact your travel agent or your travel insurance provider for assistance regarding refunds. Please remember, your travel insurance provider will require receipts for any out-of-pocket expenses incurred.
Contiki is actively monitoring the situation as it unfolds and will post additional updates as necessary.
