Fog Causes Travel Hassles: How Travel Insurance Helps
Dense fog has disrupted the transportation system on both roads and in the air, causing many delays in trains and flights. In fact, schools also moved online. It has affected the travel in North and Central India, leading to many delayed and canceled flights. Social media is filled with complaints from people, including actors. In a recent incident, a passenger got frustrated after an eight-hour delay and hit the IndiGo captain.
The same situation will occur every year. However, to deal with such scenarios, travel insurance companies have taken a proactive approach to handle these situations.
"A robust travel insurance policy provides essential protection, shielding policyholders from unforeseen situations that might lead to trip cancellations or modifications. Compensation is extended for flight delays arising from factors such as inclement weather, crew unavailability, technical issues, air traffic congestion, or operational challenges. In cases of trip cancellations due to natural calamities or covered reasons like illness, injury, or personal/professional issues, travel insurance covers non-refundable costs, including flight tickets and hotel bookings, said Policybazaar's Business Head of Travel Insurance, Manas Kapoor.
In a few recent incidents, there have been many claims by passengers for delayed flights due to fog, especially in the northern parts of the country. Avinash Gaikwad, Chief Strategy Officer (CSO), Bimaplan, said, "The passengers are not entitled to any refund in a normal case scenario, however, if an individual has opted for a Common Carrier Delay Cover (flight delay cover), which is covered within the comprehensive travel insurance then they can claim for long flight delays and cancellations that happen due to the cold weather."
While understanding the claims process and required documents is crucial for customers facing flight delays or cancellations. Kapoor suggested that policyholders must submit supporting documents like medical records or confirmation letters from airlines explaining the reason for cancellation or flight delay. A duly filled claim form and supporting bills for incurred expenses are necessary, along with a copy of the policyholder's Indian bank cancelled cheque or bank account statement containing Account Number, Account Holder's Name, Branch Name, and IFSC code. Passport with exit and entry stamps or the boarding pass is also required. For further assistance, customers should contact the assistance service provider. Additionally, submitting any reports or documents from the common carrier can strengthen the claim process for the policyholder.
Amidst flight delays and cancellations caused by fog, travel insurance assumes a key role, serving as a financial safety net for travelers. "In the face of disruptions, this insurance offers coverage for supplementary expenses like accommodation, meals, and transportation. By providing financial protection and instilling peace of mind, travel insurance safeguards individuals from substantial financial burdens arising due to unforeseen weather-related challenges during flight disruptions," said EaseMyTrip's spokesperson.
