In the present day, air travel has become a routine aspect of life, though it remains among the more costly means of transportation. Particularly in international flights, the expenses associated with flight tickets can be significant. Consequently, if there is a need to cancel or postpone the travel plans, you may incur a significant loss invested in the flight tickets. However, there exists a recourse to address such concerns in the form of flight cancellation protection, which is included in certain travel insurance policies.
To ascertain whether a flight cancellation falls within the coverage of your travel insurance policy, continue reading this blog.
Does Your Travel Insurance Cover Flight Cancellation?
Trip cancellation coverage of your travel insurance reimburses non-refundable and pre-paid expenses, such as unused flight tickets and hotel bookings. It is important to note that claims for trip cancellation can only be made for reasons explicitly outlined in the policy document.
For those seeking broader coverage that allows cancellation for any reason, specific plans are labelled as “cancel for any reason insurance.” These plans may also include reimbursement for the co-traveller when the insured cancels their trip.
It’s essential to review your policy to understand the extent of coverage your insurance provides, such as multi-trip travel insurance. This will show you whether your insurance automatically includes flight cancellation or if you need to purchase an add-on.
How to Claim Your Travel Insurance Flight Cancellation Feature?
When unforeseen circumstances force you to cancel your trip, having travel insurance can provide much-needed reassurance. If you find yourself in such a situation, here is how you can claim insurance for flight cancellation under any international insurance plan, such as senior citizen travel insurance.
- The first and most crucial step is to inform your insurance provider about the reasons for your flight cancellation. Be sure to provide them with all the necessary details.
- Prepare and submit all the required documents promptly. This typically includes
- a duly filled claim form,
- original invoices for your trip expenses
- a duplicate of the communication with the airline confirming the cancellation
- Check with your travel insurance provider for other relevant documents supporting your claim.
However, being aware of certain factors that could affect your compensation is vital. For example, most insurers have a strict policy and may only entertain flight cancellation claims if you cancel your flight at least 24 hours before its scheduled departure. So, if you foresee any potential issues, it’s best to act promptly and notify the airline and your travel insurance provider within the agreed timeframe.
Flight Cancellation Claim Inclusions
The covered reasons for trip cancellation for any insurance, such as senior citizen travel insurance, can differ depending on the specific travel insurance policy. Following are some of the most common inclusions –
- It includes cancellation due to the insured person’s injury or illness or the illness of a travel companion, family member, or business partner.
- Additionally, trip cancellation may be covered by any insurance, such as multi-trip travel insurance, if the destination is affected by a hurricane or natural disaster or the travel company faces financial bankruptcy or default.
- Furthermore, the policy, such as senior citizen travel insurance, could cover trip cancellation due to the death or hospitalisation of the host at the destination or if the insured’s home or business is damaged, vandalised, or burglarised.
- Other covered reasons include being summoned for required court appearance, military redeployment, termination, transfer, or being a victim of felonious assault before the trip.
The term “unexpected and unforeseen” plays a significant role in the context of travel insurance. It emphasises that the insurance will only apply if the trip cancellation results from an unforeseen event. For instance, if any family member falls ill or passes away after being diagnosed with a known illness or health condition, the insurance may not cover the cancellation.
Flight Cancellation Claim Exclusions
Understanding these exclusions can help travellers manage their expectations and make informed decisions about their travel insurance needs.
- It typically won’t cover cancellations resulting from circumstances like getting detained at customs and missing a flight.
- Similarly, minor illnesses that might cause discomfort, such as the flu, are generally not eligible for insurance coverage, such as multi-trip travel insurance. Insurance providers typically require more severe medical conditions that pose a significant risk to the traveller’s health to qualify for compensation.
- Furthermore, cancelling a trip due to a heavy workload or other personal reasons is not generally covered by standard trip cancellation insurance. It is essential to understand that this type of travel insurance protects against unexpected and uncontrollable events, not changes of mind or personal preferences.
- For individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, it is crucial to know that the insurance, such as senior citizen travel insurance, may not cover any cancellations or medical issues related to them.
- Lastly, changing your mind about a trip is not a covered reason for cancellation.
Conclusion
Having the right travel insurance coverage is always essential to protect yourself from potential financial losses caused by flight cancellations. Flight cancellation protection, available in specific insurance policies, can provide peace of mind and financial security when unforeseen circumstances disrupt travel plans. However, it is crucial to carefully review the policy details to completely understand the extent of coverage, including specific reasons for trip cancellations that qualify for reimbursement.