Flight disruptions: what to do in case of a travel disruption and what does insurance cover?

In recent weeks, flight disruptions have become more frequent, with flights being cancelled and changed, including due to the fuel crisis. This means that many travellers are facing unexpected decisions: whether to wait, change plans or buy a new ticket.

In such a situation, it is easy to make quick but expensive decisions. That is why we are sharing clear instructions on how to act in the event of a travel disruption, so that the loss is kept to a minimum and we can support you as much as possible with insurance.

What should I do if my flight is cancelled or my travel plan changes?

The most important thing is to act calmly and thoughtfully.

Contact the following as soon as possible:

• the airline or tour operator to inquire about alternatives;
• then inform LHV of the situation as well (680 1122, kahjud@lhv.ee).

Often it is the service provider who is able to offer the fastest and most affordable solutions. We can help you assess which of them is reasonable.

Do I have to find a solution myself before contacting insurance?

You do not have to, but we recommend doing so in parallel. The best result is achieved if you first find out about the options of the service provider (airline, accommodation provider, tour operator) and at the same time also inform us (680 1122, kahjud@lhv.ee). This way, we can guide you, if necessary, before you incur larger expenses.

Which costs are reimbursed in the event of a travel disruption?

We reimburse necessary and justified transport costs and necessary and justified accommodation costs if the travel plan changes. The goal is to help you continue your journey, but to do so in a way that does not incur unreasonably high additional costs.

How is it decided whether an expense is justified?

We look at each case individually and, when assessing them, we consider, for example:

• what alternatives were available;
• how quickly a decision had to be made;
• which solution helps to continue the trip with a reasonable total cost.

If necessary, we compare different options and their total cost.

Can I buy a new ticket myself and have the costs reimbursed later?

You can, but it is important that the choice is justified and well-thought-out. If a reasonable alternative exists (for example, a replacement flight offered by the airline), then choosing a significantly more expensive option may not be reimbursable. Therefore, we recommend contacting us before making larger expenses.

Why might the fastest solution not be the best?

Often the choice is between two options: first, to wait a little longer and use the existing solution, or second, to buy a new, faster, but significantly more expensive ticket.

Although the time saving may seem important, a significantly more expensive solution is not always justified if a reasonable alternative was available.

Insurance helps cover costs that are necessary, not convenience decisions that increase the loss.

Are all additional travel-related costs reimbursed?

All costs may not be reimbursed. We reimburse costs to the extent that is justified in the situation, avoiding solutions where changing the trip ends up being more expensive than its cancellation or where choices are made that could have been avoided.

Golden rules in case of a travel disruption

A travel disruption is a stressful situation, but following these principles helps keep costs under control and increases the likelihood of reimbursement.

• Do not make decisions in a hurry. Take a moment to evaluate different options.
• Start with the service provider. An airline or tour operator often offers the most affordable solution.
• Take out insurance early. If in doubt, seek advice before incurring expenses.
• Choose a reasonable, not the most convenient solution. Ask yourself: would this be my choice even if I were paying for it myself?
• Keep expenses in proportion. The solution should not become significantly more expensive than the original trip.

How to better protect yourself in the future?

When planning trips in the future, prefer, for example, flexible flight tickets or accommodation that can be changed or cancelled free of charge. These give more options in unexpected situations and help avoid large additional expenses. A change in travel plans is inconvenient, but you do not have to handle it alone. If you need help or are in doubt, please contact us. We will help you find a solution that is both practical and reasonable.