MORE than 1,100 flights have been delayed or cancelled at the north's two main airports already this year, according to Civil Aviation Authority figures.
It comes as many are heading off on their summer holidays abroad for the first time since before the pandemic.
George Best Belfast City Airport had 958 cancellations from March to July, ranking it fifth among all UK airports behind Leeds Bradford, Isle of Man, Aberdeen and London City.
But that represents just 2.7 per cent of all flights sampled.
Belfast International saw a significantly lower number of cancellations at 168 over the period.
That represented 0.3 per cent of flights sampled, ranking it 22nd on the list of UK airports.
But despite the cancellations, Belfast City remains one of the best airports in the UK for short waiting times, coming joint fifth with Cardiff Wales, with just a 14 minute average delay.
Belfast International wasn’t far behind at 18 minutes.
The CAA figures - which used a random sample of approximately 2,000 flights on one day every month from March-July this year - come as many prepare to fly to holiday destinations.
CompareNI.com analysed the data and created a UK-wide airport index on delays and cancellations, with tips on what to do if travellers find themselves in this situation.
Its managing director Ian Wilson said: “Travel plans can change quickly and the uncertainty can make many of us nervous to travel.
“That’s why it’s important to protect yourself against trip delays and cancellations – which most travel insurance policies cover as standard. It can be devastating to miss out on a holiday, so it's important to ensure that you don’t lose your money too.
“When shopping for travel insurance, make sure to compare different providers for the best deals and check their coverage carefully – lots of providers now have new tiered policies to help everyone afford to get cover but be careful to check it has everything you need, such as lost baggage, accident cover, medical expenses, covid cover, delays and cancellations.
“Don’t assume that the policy will protect you from all travel issues and make sure you know exactly what’s included in the policy to avoid any surprises later on.”
FIVE KEY DO'S
:: DO keep copies
It's crucial to keep all important documents like medical records, receipts, and notices of cancellations and delays, in case they're needed when submitting a travel claim. Having proper documentation helps substantiate your claim and will make the reimbursement process easier.
:: DO talk money
Make sure you have access to additional funds while away in case you need to cover any unforeseen expenses upfront – lots of travel cards are now available with reduced or no charge rates for using abroad. Taking a credit card with you can also be helpful, if elements of your holiday are cancelled or a tour operator goes bust, often the credit card company as the retailer, can offer a refund.
:: DO check coverage
Take the time to understand the coverage, exclusions, and limitations of your travel insurance policy before purchasing it. It’s always important to read the fine print and check it covers everything you need – especially now more basic tiered products have entered the market to help everyone afford travel insurance.
:: DO check for ABTA & ATOL
If it’s a package holiday you’re hoping to travel on, check it’s ABTA protected – they will refund or replace your holiday should the plans be altered by a change in the situation at the holiday destination. ATOL protection means customers won’t be left stranded abroad if the tour operator or airline goes bust.
:: DO compare
When shopping for travel insurance, it's important to compare policies from different providers. Focus on finding comprehensive coverage, competitive pricing, and positive customer reviews. Don't forget to consider important factors such as trip cancellation, medical coverage, baggage protection and emergency assistance services.
