Travel advice for all travelers

Dear Travelers

Please be advised of the following developments that may impact your travel programme. 

United Kingdom: Carefully consider travel arrangements on 30 November due to expected disruption at airports during strike

Public sector workers, including transport, customs and immigration officials, will stage a 24-hour work stoppage on 30 November. Significant disruption should be anticipated at all the country's main international airports, in particular London Heathrow (LHR). Likely disruption will be as follows:

·         Long queues at customs and immigration, potentially resulting in substantial delays for travellers entering and exiting the country.

·         Flight cancellations – airport operator BAA has requested that airlines cut incoming international passenger numbers by 50%. Several operators have cancelled or rescheduled flights in advance of the action.

·         Potentially significant delays to arriving and departing flights, as well as possible short-notice diversions.

·         Numerous airlines are offering free flight rescheduling for passengers due to travel to or from the UK on 30 November.

Public transport workers in the capital London are not currently expected to participate in the walkout in large numbers. Rail services, including Eurostar, are also not expected to be significantly affected. However, the following transport services will be suspended:

·         Glasgow and Tyne and Wear (Newcastle) metro trains.

·         Bus and train services across the whole of Northern Ireland.

Travel Advice

·         Check with airlines prior to travel; allow for flexibility in your itinerary to accommodate flight delays and cancellations, and the possibility of diversions to other UK airports.

·         Be prepared for long queues at the country's main international airports, such as London Heathrow (LHR). Allow additional time to clear immigration.

·         Allow additional time for transiting within the UK, particularly at London Heathrow, or seek alternative routes on the day.

·         Book taxis and rental cars well in advance in areas affected by public transport walkouts.