YESTERDAY wildfires broke out and spread across the southern coast of Crete in Greece, leading to the evacuation of over 1,500 people.
With the fires ongoing, here is everything you need to know about travelling to Crete.
Yesterday, wildfires broke out and spread across the southern coast of Crete in Greece, leading to the evacuation of over 1,500 people[/caption]
What is happening in Crete?
Wildfires have broken out on the southern coast of Crete in Greece, with winds spreading the fire and creating a six kilometre front.
Over 230 firefighters are currently tackling the blaze, with more than 1,500 people evacuated from homes and hotels on Wednesday.
Smoke from the fires has reached as far as Makry Gialos Beach, according to the BBC, which is six miles from Achlia, in Lasithi, where the fire is currently being battled.
Emergency alerts were also issued throughout the day yesterday, urging people to evacuate from Achlia, Ferma, Agia, Fotia, Galini and Koutsounari.
The Greek Ministry of Climate Crisis & Civil Protection has issued “a very high fire risk category four” alert for tomorrow, in the Attica region (including the island of Kythira), region of Evia in central Greece, the Peloponnese region and the North Aegean region (Chios, Samos, Ikaria).
Is it safe to visit Crete?
The Foreign Office has currently not issued any warning against non-essential travel to the region.
The Foreign Office’s advice for wildfires in Greece states: “There is a high risk of wildfires during the summer season from April to October.
“Ensure that your mobile phone is registered to receive emergency alerts to be warned of wildfires near your location.
“Wildfires are highly dangerous and unpredictable. The situation can change quickly.
“To avoid starting wildfires: leave no litter, especially not glass which is known to start fires; make sure cigarettes are properly extinguished; do not light barbecues.
“Causing a wildfire or a forest fire is a criminal offence in Greece – even if unintentional. If you see a fire, call the emergency services on 112.”
The Foreign Office’s advice adds that individuals should follow ‘@112Greece’ for official updates, follow guidance from local emergency services, call the Greek emergency services on 112 if you are in immediate danger and to contact your airline or travel operator about return travel to the UK.
Have flights been cancelled to Crete airport?
Flights are currently uninterrupted, with some delays of up to an hour according to FlightRadar24, at Heraklion International Airport and Chania International Airport.
However delays are more likely to have been caused by ATC strikes today, disrupting usage of the French airspace.
There are also staff shortages at some airports in Europe and summer storm activity is currently occurring over the Alps.
Over 230 firefighters are currently tackling the blaze[/caption]
Can I cancel my trip?
As the Foreign Office has not warned against non-essential travel to Greece, there are no special circumstances in place for travellers to cancel their trip and receive a full refund.
Depending on what travel insurance you have, your policy might include natural disaster cover.
This means that your insurance covers you for when you are unable to reach your holiday destination due to a natural event, like wildfires.
So it is worth checking your travel insurance policy.
If you do choose to cancel your trip, it is best to contact your airline or holiday provider and there is no obligation for companies to refund bookings unless government advice changes.
Turkey wildfire map also shows the horror blazes near Brit holiday hotspots as 50,000 people were evacuated.
Plus, back in May, an earthquake hit Crete.
Flight compensation rules
A look at your rights if a flight is delayed or cancelled, when your entitled to compensation and if your travel insurance can cover the costs.
What are my rights if my flight is cancelled or delayed?
Under UK law, airlines have to provide compensation if your flight arrives at its destination more than three hours late.
If you are flying to or from the UK, your airline must let you choose a refund or an alternative flight.
You will be able to get your money back for the part of your ticket that you haven’t used yet.
So, if you booked a return flight and the outbound leg is cancelled, you can get the full cost of the return ticket refunded.
But if travelling is essential, then your airline has to find you an alternative flight.
This could even be with another airline.
When am I not entitled to compensation?
The airline doesn’t have to give you a refund if the flight was cancelled due to reasons beyond their control, such as extreme weather.
Disruptions caused by things like extreme weather, airport or air traffic control employee strikes or other ‘extraordinary circumstances’ are not eligible for compensation.
Some airlines may stretch the definition of “extraordinary circumstances” but you can challenge them through the aviation regulator the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Will my insurance cover me if my flight is cancelled?
If you can’t claim compensation directly through the airline, your travel insurance may refund you.
Policies vary so you should check the small print, but a delay of eight to 12 hours will normally mean you qualify for some money from your insurer.
Remember to get written confirmation of your delay from the airport as your insurer will need proof.
If your flight is cancelled entirely, you’re unlikely to be covered by your insurance.
Flights are currently uninterrupted, with some delays of up to an hour according to FlightRadar24[/caption]
