Flight Delay Or Cancellation? Here’s Why Travel Insurance Is Your Best Safeguard

Travel has become an integral part of both professional and personal life, with millions of people taking flights each day for work, leisure, or tourism. While air travel offers speed and convenience, it is not without its uncertainties. Unexpected delays or cancellations can disrupt schedules and result in significant financial losses. Experts recommend travel insurance as a reliable way to safeguard against these disruptions, providing compensation and support during unforeseen situations, and ensuring smoother travel experiences even when things don’t go as planned.

How Travel Insurance Protects Against Flight Delays

Flight delays are a common challenge for travellers worldwide. Many travel insurance policies now include compensation for delays exceeding a specified duration. This benefit can cover meals, transportation, or temporary accommodation costs incurred due to waiting for a rescheduled flight.

For instance, a traveller on a delayed Mumbai to London flight may need to spend on airport meals or transport to nearby hotels. With travel insurance, these expenses can often be reimbursed, reducing financial stress during travel interruptions.

Reimbursement for Cancelled Flights

Cancellations can be even more disruptive than delays. If an airline cancels a flight and does not provide an alternative, travel insurance can cover non-refundable costs. This includes the cost of the original ticket, pre-booked accommodation, and other travel arrangements that cannot be recovered.

Experts highlight that this coverage ensures travellers do not bear the financial burden of events beyond their control, making it a crucial component of any international or domestic trip.

Missed Connection Coverage

Transiting through major global hubs like Dubai, Singapore, or London can sometimes result in missed connections, particularly when flights are delayed. Travel insurance can cover additional expenses incurred from such missed connections, including the cost of a new connecting flight or temporary accommodation while waiting for the next available option.

According to travel specialists, opting for policies that include missed connection coverage is particularly beneficial for travellers with tight schedules or multi-leg itineraries.

24/7 Assistance Services

Modern travel insurance providers in India often offer round-the-clock support to assist travellers in emergencies. These services can help with rebooking flights, arranging accommodation, or addressing urgent needs during travel disruptions.

Experts emphasise that this assistance can be invaluable, especially for international travellers navigating unfamiliar airports or time zones, providing peace of mind and immediate solutions when plans go awry.

Choosing the Right Policy

Selecting the right travel insurance requires careful consideration of terms and coverage limits. Compare policies across providers, check the company’s reputation, and ensure the coverage matches your travel needs. When submitting claims, provide all required documentation, including proof of delays or cancellations, to facilitate smooth reimbursement.

Financial advisors suggest that taking time to review and understand policy conditions can save travellers from unexpected expenses, making travel insurance a wise investment for frequent flyers and occasional travellers alike.

Disclaimer: This article is for information only. Coverage details may vary between policies. According to experts, travellers should review the terms and conditions of insurance providers before purchase to ensure appropriate protection.