Summer holiday warning as up to 20,000 flights to be affected by strikes | The Sun

AS many as 20,000 flights could be affected this summer, as airports prepare for several days of strike action.

Walkouts caused huge problems for travellers last summer and similar scenes could appear again, with 29 days of action planned.

31 days of strikes were initially announced to take place during June, July and August, although two of those days have since been suspended.

However, more than 2,000 security guards at Heathrow airport could still walk out on June 28, 29 and 30.

The Unite union said it had postponed its first two days, planned for June 24 and 25, after receiving an improved pay offer.

Members will now vote on the new offer to decide "whether or not it meets their expectations" according to Regional Unite boss Wayne King.

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Should the strikes continue, they will resume at the end of June, before carrying on in July on 14-16, 21-24 and 28-31 before picking up again in August, on 4-7, 11-14, 18-20 and 24-27.

Staff at terminals three and five will take part in the walkouts, affecting passengers flying with British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Emirates, Qatar, United, American and Delta.

It could affect as many as 20,000 flights, according to travel and luggage experts at Bounce, who recommend monitoring the situation closely if you're due to fly on those days.

Cody Candee, CEO and Founder, said: "It is more important than ever to carefully monitor your journey, with both delays and cancellations becoming more frequent in recent years.

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"Before heading to the airport, consider downloading your airline’s app to your mobile phone so that you can closely monitor the status of your flight.

"You can also sign up for text updates and alerts if your flight is going to be delayed or cancelled.

"As soon as you hear of flight delays or cancellations be sure to contact the airline’s customer service team directly, they will be able to assist you with what to do next."

Cody also explained that should your flight be grounded due to strikes, airlines should offer you either a refund or an alternative flight option.

He continued: "For flights covered by UK law, your airline must let you choose between a refund or an alternative flight if yours is cancelled.

"These options must be provided regardless of how far in advance the cancellation was made.

"If you still want to travel, your airline must find you an alternative flight. Similarly, if your flight is cancelled, your airline must provide vouchers for you to purchase food and drink.

"And, if you require accommodation, they may book a hotel and arrange transportation for you."

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