Saying this one phrase to airlines when your flight is cancelled can dramatically increase your chances of getting the help you need
Don’t let stress get the better of you(Image: Getty)
Having a flight cancelled is an incredibly stressful experience. If you’re at the airport, bags packed and ready, everything booked and suddenly stranded, emotions can run high. However, it’s important to stay calm.
Anna Bielikova, Chief Operations Officer at Simply Contact, has shared her top tips for working your way through the chaos and getting the best customer service without losing your patience. She said there is one phrase you can say which will almost always ensure your case is addressed promptly, reports the Express.
Anna said: “Say ‘I need rebooking options, not a refund’ right away.
“This tells the system you’re looking for a quick resolution, not a lengthy refund process. Also try ‘I have onward connections’, even if you don’t. This gets you flagged as a complex case needing senior agent attention.”
She also recommends ditching the phone call for social media.
Social media solutions may be faster(Image: Getty)
These platforms often have shorter queues than phone lines because fewer people think to use them.
Anna said: “We see response times on airline apps that are 60% faster than phone support during peak periods. Social media teams also have more flexibility to solve problems quickly, and they hate public complaints.”
Try Twitter DMs or Facebook Messenger first. These teams want to resolve issues fast before they become reputation disasters. If the airport is packed and the service desk for the airline you’re using has a huge queue, you can also try one of the other partner airlines.
A lot of airlines share booking systems and can help with rebookings.
“If you’re flying British Airways and their desk is packed, try checking with American Airlines or Qantas,” suggests Anna. “They’re all in the same alliance and can often help faster than waiting in your original queue.”
If you are going to call the airline, try to avoid peak times.
If your flight is cancelled you have options(Image: Getty)
Anna said: “The biggest mistake people make is calling during peak hours, which are between 8am and 6pm when everyone else is calling.
“Try early morning or late evening instead, if it’s not urgent. And never rely solely on airport staff during major disruptions. They’re dealing with hundreds of people face-to-face while phone and digital teams might be less overwhelmed.”
It’s also crucial to stay calm and be polite, no matter how frustrated you may be. “Whatever you do, don’t shout or get aggressive,” said Anna.
“I’ve seen our systems flag difficult customers, and once you’re marked as problematic, every future interaction becomes harder.
“Stay calm, be specific about what you need, and always have your booking reference ready. The agents want to help you, so make their job easier and they’ll make yours easier too.”
Travellers could face issues and delays on their trips after further strike action was announced which will take place on set days and times
10:09, 10 Aug 2025Updated 10:55, 10 Aug 2025
There could be delays(Image: NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Holidaymakers going to Spain are facing a fresh blow as new strikes have been announced affecting major airports and airlines across parts of the country. The UGT union previously stated there will be a series of strikes affecting Ryanair’s baggage handling department.
These are set to start on August 15. However there is now increased potential for delays and flight cancellations after 1,500 workers with a second firm, Menzies, said it would hold its own industrial action, which will also start in August.
Menzies services a number of major airlines including British Airways, easyJet, Wizz Air, American Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Emirates and Norwegian. The UGT union said the strike by ground staff of the Menzies group will affect five Spanish airports, including Barcelona-El Prat, Alicante, Palma, Malaga and Tenerife South, on August 16, 17, 23, 24, 30 and 31.
It is peak tourist season(Image: Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
In a statement the union explained it is objecting to what it says are “serious and repeated breaches of labour agreements and the conditions established by agreement” by Menzies. Amongst these “violations”, UGT highlights “salary breaches, violation of subrogation rights, disorganisation in working hours and schedules.”
The union also claims there have been “constant errors in the management of personnel and payroll”, reports the Express. It also argues that there is a shortage of staff to handle the workload and an “arbitrary imposition of holidays.”
It claims Menzies is in breach of the sectoral handling agreement, the company’s own agreement, and the sectoral agreement ratified by the Interconfederal Mediation and Arbitration Service (SIMA) in December 2024, which led to the cancellation of a previous strike. The union has already called for multiple strikes in Ryanair’s handling department.
These are set for the peak holiday season when Spain is brimming with tourists. This strike, which involves more than 3,000 workers who load and unload luggage, will be held this week – on Friday, August 15, Saturday, August 16, and Sunday, August 17 and then every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
The Ryanair strikes could continue until next January unless an agreement can be reached. However legally, the workers must provide a “minimum service” which is yet to be determined, but the action will still significantly affect travellers.
The strikes could affect travellers significantly
The union says those protests are “against the sanctions imposed on workers and the abuse of hours.” Ryanair’s bases are situated in Valencia, Alicite, Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Malaga, Ibiza, Palma, Girona, Tenerife South, Lanzarote and Santiago.
The strike at Azul Handling (Ryanair’s handling subsidiary) is set for August 15, 16 and 17 and will continue every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday until at least December 31, as confirmed by the UGT in a statement. The actions could potentially extend into January.
The strike will take place between 5am and 9am, noon and 3pm and 9pm to 11.59pm. The FeSMC-UGT airline sector is requesting mediation before the Interconfederal Mediation and Arbitration Service (SIMA).
The union has said the reasons for the strike call. It says these are:
Lack of stable job creation and consolidation of working hours for permanent part-time staff
Imposition and coercion in the performance of complementary hours, both ordinary and voluntary, apply in some cases, with disproportionate sanctions
Repeated failure to comply with the opinions of the Joint Committee of the Sectoral Agreement on guarantees and bonuses
Illegal restrictions on reinstatement after medical discharge and on the adaptation of working hours to exercise the right to family conciliation
It says: “UGT regrets having to go to these extremes and all the damages that may occur, for which the direct responsibility will be solely and exclusively the company and its reckless action with the workforce.”
Jose Manuel Perez Grande, Federal Secretary of the FeSMC-UGT Air Union, has accused Azul Handling of maintaining “a strategy of precariousness and pressure on the workforce that violates basic labour rights and systematically ignores union demands.”
The FeSMC-UGT Air Sector is calling for the company to withdraw the sanctions, stick to the recommendations of the Joint Commission, and start a real negotiation process aimed at enhancing the working conditions for over 3,000 employees across the country.
British Airways flight BA1410 from London Heathrow to Belfast declared a mid-air emergency and was forced to divert to Manchester Airport
12:11, 27 Jul 2025Updated 12:12, 27 Jul 2025
A British Airways Airbus A319 was forced to divert after pilots declared emergency(Image: Getty Images)
A British Airways service bound for Belfast had to make an unexpected detour when the pilots issued an emergency alert.
The BA1410 flight took off from London Heathrow at 08:05 BST on July 26, but around half an hour into the journey, the crew triggered a 7700 emergency code, as reported by AirLive.
The aircraft then entered a holding pattern before being directed to Manchester Airport due to what was believed to be a potential depressurisation problem.
Emergency services were on standby as the Airbus A319, with a capacity of up to 130 passengers, touched down.
Sources indicate that the diversion resulted from a technical glitch in a sensor device, with passengers forced to disembark for thorough inspections by British Airways technicians.
An alternative plane was subsequently arranged, allowing travellers to resume their trips after approximately a three-hour delay.
Matthew Hall, the managing director of airport transfers app hoppa, has previously noted that compensation entitlements typically hinge on whether the disruption stems from airline faults, such as mechanical defects or staff shortages.
Hall remarked, “Since leaving the EU, UK flights are still covered by a similar law that protects passenger’s rights when faced with travel delays.”, reports Belfast Live.
This protection extends to departures from UK airports, arrivals at UK airports on EU or UK carriers, departures from EAA airports, or arrivals in the EU on UK airlines.
“If your flight is a non-UK flight that is part of a connection to a UK flight, then you can still claim if you are delayed for more than three hours, you booked the flights as a single booking, and the delay is the airlines fault,” Hall elaborates.
By law, cancellations with less than 14 days notice entitle you to compensation, depending on the length of the flight route. “With short-haul flights (<1,500km, i.e. Manchester to Dublin) you could be entitled to £220 if arriving at your final destination more than two hours after originally planned, reduced to £110 if arriving within two hours of schedule and announced with more than seven days’ notice,” Hall explains.
This increases to £350 for medium-haul flights (1,500-3,500km i.e. Leeds Bradford to Tenerife South) if you arrive at your final destination more than three hours after originally planned, according to Hall.
“Although, this can be reduced to £175 if arriving within three hours of schedule and announced with more than seven days’ notice,” Hall adds.
Paying for a seat on a plane is an added expense that many travellers prefer to avoid, but one expert has shared how to travel in comfort without spending any money.
Travel expert shares last-minute check-in strategy to snag the best plane seats for free(Image: RossHelen via Getty Images)
After paying for your flight and any checked luggage, many of us would prefer to not fork out even more for a seat. But waiting to be assigned a random seat can often mean you end up squished in between strangers, making for a rather uncomfortable journey, especially if you’ve got a long way to go.
While some airlines like British Airways will let you choose a seat if you pay for luggage, there’s plenty of packing tips and tricks out there which means many travellers stick to hand luggage. With recent reports that travellers who sit in an unassigned seat in the hopes it might be free could face a hefty fine for what’s being dubbed seat squatting, there’s one more secure way of grabbing a good seat.
Chelsea Dickenson is known for sharing budget travel advice on her blog Holiday Expert, and in a recent article for Metro, she revealed the easy way to get the best seat on the plane without having to spare a single penny.
However, she warned that this isn’t for those who get easy stressed when travelling, as it requires leaving things quite last minute.
Referring to her tactic as “check-in chicken”, Chelsea explained that the trick to getting the best seat on the plane is done by delaying online check-in until the last possible moment.
Chelsea said: “After years of flying on a budget, I’ve learned a thing or two about how they operate. And more often than not, my method lands me a seat with extra legroom without paying a penny”, reports the Express.
However, this strategy won’t be suitable for those travelling in groups, particularly families who wish to be seated together.
If you want to sit together but don’t want to fork out extra for seats, Money Saving Expert instead recommends groups of travellers check-in as soon as you’re able to.
In a post on their website, they explained all major airlines except Ryanair will attempt to seat groups on the same booking together, provided there are seats available next to each other that other passengers haven’t already reserved.
But if you are travelling alone, a game of check-in chicken could work in your favour, particularly if you end up at the front of the aircraft with extra leg room, or in a window seat.
Waiting until the last minute to check-in could see you sat in an even better seat than you might have paid for(Image: Alexander Spatari via Getty Images)
However, Chelsea cautioned that travellers “need a cool head, a charged phone and very firm grasp on when online check-in closes” to do this successfully, and check-in times can differ depending on the airline.
The savvy traveller also pointed out that she primarily employs this tactic, which she refers to as one of her “favourite budget travel joys”, when flying with budget carriers such as Ryanair or Wizz Air, noting that airlines like easyJet and British Airways don’t typically allocate the less desirable seats initially.
Once check-in has opened, which is typically 24 hours before your flight departs, Chelsea said she keeps monitoring the seat map throughout the day, and proceeds with the check-in when she’s satisfied with the remaining seat options.
However, the secret to doing this is to not actually leave it to the very last minute, which could see you having to pay a fee at the airport, and likely more than you would have if you’d simply paid for a seat.
Chelsea clarified that: “I often find that by six hours to go there’s only ‘good’ seats left – ones with extra legroom, seats on the front rows or simply non-middle aisle seats,” and she recommended setting alarms to make sure you don’t forget.
Netflights travel expert Amanda Parker tackles the viral ‘free upgrade’ flight myth that’s circulating TikTok, offering three alternatives to boosting your luck for freebies
A travel expert has provided a better alternative to boosting your luck on upgrading your flight [stock image](Image: Getty Images)
A travel expert has addressed a popular TikTok hack that promises to upgrade your flights for free. With the trend going viral this summer as jetsetters buckle up for a holiday abroad, Brits are desperate to know just how to save their coins whilst maxing out their luck.
One flier has circulated on TikTok, accumulating over 2.5 million views for sharing his means of a free upgrade. He said: “A little charm and confidence go a long way”. Instructing viewers to go to the lengths of buying chocolates at the airport and boarding last, the user suggested fliers charmingly gift the flight attendants upon board for a magical free upgrade.
TikTok’s for free-upgrade hacks are circulating this holiday season, but this flight expert says there might be a better way to upgrade(Image: Getty Images)
Splitting viewers in two over whether this trick really works or not has led to flying experts at Netflights coming forward to shed light on this gift-theory and whether sweet-talking is worth a shot.
Netflights’ Amanda Parker said: “The travel hack of buying flight attendants a gift, and sweet-talking them when boarding the plane has gone viral. Kindness will always be appreciated by airline staff, so small gestures like snacks or gifts won’t go unnoticed.
One TikTok comment shares, “as ex-cabin crew I can confirm this works”. However, the chances of receiving a complimentary upgrade just by handing over a box of chocolates might be slim”.
Content cannot be displayed without consent
She went on, saying: “Free upgrades are usually determined by strict criteria, including frequent flyer status, ticket class, availability, and airline policies, unfortunately, not by last-minute sweet talk as you board the plane!”.
“The gift and sweet-talk hack may work, so it’s worth a try; but, we warn you not to get your hopes up, as these moments are the exception, not the rule! You may just strike lucky if your flight attendant likes chocolate M&M’s!”
Netflight give their expert alternative to the ‘flight freebie’ hack(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
As an alternative, Netflight provided their expert tips on how to really up your chances of that sought-after upgrade and ‘freebies’:
Join loyalty programmes
Frequent fliers and loyal customers are most likely to bag the free upgrades so take advantage of all those summer trips by joining an airlines reward scheme. Netflight adds that “even if you don’t fly frequently, some credit cards allow you to earn points that count towards upgrades. Over time, this can significantly boost your chances of an upgrade”.
Travel in off-peak periods
You can boost your luck by traveling in off-peak hours and days. Less popular times mean flights are quieter, therefore there are more Premium seats available – your chances suddenly peaking. Netflight suggests “to avoid flying in school holidays and Friday evenings or weekends” and to opt for “midweek flights at midday” as they are “typically quieter”.
Be polite and have good manners
Seems simple but whilst politeness won’t equal an instant upgrade, they never hurt. Staff should always be treated with respect, no matter whether you’re pinning for that upgrade or not. That being said, Netflight agrees that “being kind can make you stand out, so a small gift like chocolates might be remembered”. Either way, your flight attendants will definitely appreciate it.
Two stunning but overlooked destinations just a couple of hours from the UK are slated for a huge tourist boom, after a major airline ramps up its offerings – but there is one small catch
BA has added two beautiful destinations to its short-haul offerings(Image: Getty Images)
British Airways is ramping up its offerings as it launches two new direct routes – with prices starting at just £60. The upmarket airline has revealed that Brits will soon be able to fly to two new stunning destinations under its Gatwick-based subsidiary, BA Euroflyer, bringing its total number of short-haul destinations to 130. This includes the fairytale city of Graz in Austria and the overlooked hotspot of Rabat in Morocco.
However, there is one small catch. Both new routes won’t debut until November this year, meaning Brits wanting to explore somewhere new this summer won’t be able to take advantage of the new flights.
BA is launching new routes from London Gatwick to Graz and Rabat – but not until November(Image: Getty Images)
“We are excited to further strengthen our connectivity between London and Austria with the addition of Graz,” said Karen Hilton, managing director of BA Euroflyer. “We will be the only direct operation between the two cities, offering more choice to our customers, whether it’s for business, leisure, or visiting friends and family.
“With its year-round warm weather, Morocco is ideal for those seeking an off-season escape without a lengthy flight time. The addition of Rabat means we now fly to three fantastic destinations in Morocco – an excellent choice for families, couples, and friends alike.”
Graz, Austria
Graz is the capital city of the southern Austrian province of Styria, but has long remained out of the tourist spotlight. Overshadowed by the likes of Vienna and Salzburg, this quaint city was named a UNESCO City of Design in 2011, and its historic core is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
BA will operate flights to Graz three times per week, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, starting on November 21, 2025. The journey takes, on average, two hours and 20 minutes.
The charming city is dripping in history, but has long been ignored by tourists(Image: Getty Images)
Highlights include the prominent mid-16th century clock tower on the Schlossberg mountain, which offers breathtaking views of the city – showing off its impressive range of architecture from the Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Historism and Art Nouveau eras. Its main square, Hauptlaz, is a great place for those wanting to pick up souvenirs at the weekly markets – and used to be used as an execution site back in the Middle Ages.
“Next to the Grazer Dom cathedral is one of the most striking buildings in Graz,” explains travel experts over at Lonely Planet. “This is the Mausoleum of Ferdinand II, part of St. Catherine’s Church, complete with soaring turquoise domes. Ferdinand had his court artist Giovanni Pietro de Pomis, originally from northern Italy, start work on the mausoleum and church in 1614.”
Grazer Dom Cathedral is a must-visit attraction(Image: Getty Images)
Rabat, Morocco
Attracting a fraction of the tourists that flock to Marrakech, Rabat is actually Morocco’s capital – and is brimming with rich history, impressive architecture, and things to do. BA will fly to the city twice per week (on Wednesdays and Sundays) starting on November 5, 2025.
Rabat boasts a much more laid-back atmosphere than the bustling streets of Marrakech(Image: Getty Images/Westend61)
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage city thanks to its blend of tradition and modernity, this riverside region boasts manicured green spaces and an efficient tramway linking its districts together. The biggest attraction has to be Kasbah des Oudaias, a 12th-century citadel located within the Kasbah’s medieval gates. Initially constructed as a military fortress to protect the region, this preserved landmark now has a Mediterranean feel to it, and is filled with artisan shops and cobbled streets.
The stunning citadel feels like you’ve stepped back in time(Image: Getty Images)
“Rabat is also a modern eco-responsible capital with its green spaces. Beautiful parks await you, such as the botanical test garden or the Exotic Gardens of Bouknadel which is a few kilometres from the city,” hails the country’s official tourist board, Visit Morocco. “Rabat also boasts an outstanding coastline; on the Atlantic Ocean shores, it has kilometres of well-equipped beaches that lead to the neighbouring city of Casablanca.”
*BA Euroflyer flies from London Gatwick to Graz from £60 each way, and to Rabat from £70 each way. This included taxes and carrier fees.
Do you have a story to share? Email us at [email protected] for a chance to be featured.
Florence has been named the most walkable city in the world, and it’s not hard to see why when you take a closer look at the five key attractions that are all within a 10-minute walk of each other
Florence has many attractions within a 10-minute walk of each other(Image: Sylvain Sonnet via Getty Images)
Florence has been crowned the ultimate city break for its outstanding beauty and walkability, with tourists flocking to the heart of Tuscany to stroll through its historic streets. According to newly released data, what makes Florence a magnet for visitors is not only its status as regional capital but also its compact nature, with five major attractions nestled within just half a mile of one another.
Earlier this year, financial pundits at Insider Monkey unveiled their list of the world’s most walkable cities, drawing from sources like Tourlane and WalkScore while also considering factors such as air quality and safety levels.
With rave reviews for being “a city that offers Renaissance history and timeless architecture with each step”, Florence’s appeal lies in a historic centre that doubles as a UNESCO-listed haven, boasting such marvels as the Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria, Piazza del Duomo and Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore – all conveniently close for a leisurely 10-minute amble.
Florence, the first European city to pave all its streets back in 1339, is a walker’s paradise. With its meandering village roads and hidden nooks, you can uncover the city’s treasures without hopping on a bus or tram.
TripAdvisor is brimming with top-rated walking tours, including the highly recommended Florence Sunset Walking Tour with Food and Wine tasting.
Florence’s Duomo is in the heart of the city(Image: Suttipong Sutiratanachai via Getty Images)
This three to four-hour journey delves into Florence’s rich heritage, offering both culinary and cultural delights. The tour has been hailed as a “wonderful touring, eating, drinking adventure” by satisfied travellers, reports the Express.
One review highlighted the picturesque riverside path along the Arno River, which flows from the lofty Apennine mountains into the heart of Florence.
For those with a penchant for culture and history, the Florence in a Day tour comes highly praised. Tourists have called it “a wonderful way to see some key sites in Florence” packed with “a wealth of information” provided by knowledgeable guides.
And if you’re on the hunt for hidden gems, Piazza della Passera offers a tranquil alternative to the bustling Piazza Signoria. Celebrated for its “very genuine local atmosphere” by Love From Tuscany, it’s an ideal spot for a leisurely break.
Ponte Vecchio – a medieval stone arch bridge in Florence(Image: zpagistock via Getty Images)
For the best view, the terrace on top of La Rinascente department store offers a stunning view over the city’s rooftops and the Duomo, serving light refreshments including coffee.
Alternatively, you can visit the Santarosa gardens in the Oltrarno for a comfortable meal or cocktail outdoors.
Flight deals to Florence are readily available via Skyscanner with Iberia, Vueling, or British Airways. October is by far the most affordable month to visit with prices starting at £48 from London direct to Florence.
Sam slammed the airline in a now viral TikTok video that has racked up more than three million views after spending her savings on a dream holiday to Miami with her best friend
A furious holidaymaker has blasted British Airways after a dream trip to Miami left her out of pocket and without her belongings for almost her entire holiday.
Sam, who shared her ordeal in a viral TikTok, claimed she was forced to pay £60 per suitcase on her journey to Miami – only to discover later her missing bag had been sitting in her hotel’s storage room all along. Her nightmare began at the airport check-in desk, where she was told her British Airways booking didn’t include checked-in luggage – despite her insisting she had paid for it.
“We tried to use the bag drop at the airport and it wouldn’t let us check in,” she explained. “We go to the check in desk and this woman literally looks like she hates us. We are the bane of her existence. She’s saying we hadn’t pre-booked our luggage, which we definitely had.”
Sam and her best friend Immie had attempted to enjoy their flight(Image: britshbroski/TikTok)
Staff allegedly made her pay £60 per suitcase to get them on the flight. But it got worse after she claims the check-in assistant accidentally charged her twice and told her she’d have to reclaim the money online after her holiday.
Sam said: “We ended up crying at the desk. She was not bothered.”
After finally boarding her flight to Miami, she said she noticed her suitcase being pulled aside for a security check. She was later informed it hadn’t been properly labelled for her connecting flight – but staff assured her the issue had been sorted.
However, when she landed in Miami, her suitcase was nowhere to be found. “I explained all the issues we had a check-in to someone at the airport,” she said. “It’s never happened to me. I’m panicking. I’m crying.”
British Airways reportedly told her the bag was “stuck in limbo” and promised to send it on to her hotel as soon as possible. Days later, she received a text saying her luggage was on the way – but it never arrived.
Sam was shocked to discover her luggage had been sitting in the hotel the whole time(Image: britshbroski/TikTok)
“I go to the hotel receptionist and she tells me there’s no suitcase,” Sam said. “There was one day on the holiday that I made 45 calls to British Airways. I had none of my makeup, shoes, toiletries and medication that I have to take daily.”
But at the end of her holiday, Sam made a shocking discovery – her suitcase had been at the hotel all along, stashed away in the storage room for several days while she went without her belongings.
After returning home, she contacted British Airways to complain and says she was eventually given a refund for all expenses endured.
The Mirror has contacted British Airways for comment.
Footage shows the heart-stopping moment where a plane full of passengers attempted to land in Madeira only to be shaken by violent winds
The terrifying moment a plane packed with passengers is violently shaken by strong winds as it attempts to land at Madeira Airport has been caught on camera.
The jaw-dropping footage shows the Marabu Airlines A320 shakily approaching the runway and swaying from side to side, before a turbulent landing that appears to cause the aircraft to bounce up and down the runway at Cristiano Ronaldo Madeira International Airport in Madeira. It’s not yet been confirmed whether there were any injuries to passengers as a result.
One social media user, commenting on the plane’s approach and landing, said today: “This is crazy. I already have a knot in my lower neck just from watching.”
Another, believed to have been a passenger on the plane, said: “Landing in Madeira had to be one of the worst moments in my life. That airport is as scary as hell. I felt the plane moving non-stop and the landing was so bad, God.”
The terrifying moment was caught on camera(Image: JTP/SOLARPIX.COM)
She continued: “I get it when people say it’s one of the most dangerous airports because IT’S TRUE,” which prompted a local to respond: “Imagine how us living in Madeira must feel when we have to travel. We pray every time so everything goes well.”
Yesterday, a reported 49 flights – 26 arrivals and 23 departures – were cancelled due to the severe weather conditions, causing major disruptions for a second consecutive day and causing chaos for British tourists trying to reach and leave the island. Frustrated holidaymakers took to social media in the early hours of this morning to vent their anger about being left stranded without food or accommodation.
The first flight reported to have been cancelled yesterday was coming from London. A 1.45am flight scheduled to depart for London was also among those cancelled, with Ryanair and easyJet being among the airlines affected.
Local newspapers described it as a “nightmare day” for travellers. Some planes reportedly managed to fly over Madeira for a few minutes before being diverted to other airports including Porto Santo, Lisbon, Faro and even Tenerife.
On social media, some Brits claimed that they were left stranded at the airport and unable to return to the UK, claiming that they were not give food or accommodation, and left in the dark about when the next flights would be available.
Meanwhile one Portuguese passenger told local news that up to 500 people were reportedly forced to sleep at the airport, while another said that no mattresses had been provided for those who were stuck overnight. They added: “No-one helped us or informed us of anything and there was no food available.”
Were you affected by the chaos at Madeira? Email us at [email protected]
A travel fan has shared her love for the “most underrated country in the world” with holidaymakers, as the stunning spot has plenty of things to see and do for less than £500
Malta has many gorgeous beaches(Image: arcady_31 via Getty Images)
A holidaymaker is urging travel enthusiasts to visit what she calls the “most underrated country in the world” promising a wealth of activities and an experience that won’t break the bank at under £500. Hannah, a young traveller who regularly shares her top travel tips on her TikTok account @hannahshols, has been captivated by numerous destinations but holds a special place in her heart for Malta.
Nestled below Italy and above Tunisia, this gem of a location is just over a three-hour flight from the UK. On a trip to the diminutive nation with friends, Hannah found that they each spent slightly more than £400 for flights, a five-night hotel stay with access to a rooftop pool, breakfast included, as well as baggage and transfers.
Her TikTok video showcasing the adventure amassed over one million likes. She enthused: “Malta is by far the most underrate country I think I’ve ever visited.”
She continued: “Even though Malta is the 10th smallest country in the world, it is definitely giving big country energy.” The video highlights the destination’s captivating sea views, abundant shops and restaurants, historical landmarks, and stunning gardens.
Reflecting on her September visit last year, Hannah shared why the trip was so memorable: “One thing I loved about Malta was that it was like nowhere I’d ever been before. It’s got such strong Arabic and Roman influences.”
She concluded with heartfelt praise: “It was just absolutely beautiful and everyone we met just seemed so proud to be Maltese.”
Gnejna Bay in Malta is one of the most untouched beaches(Image: Wendy Rauw Photography via Getty Images)
The travel influencer recommends a trip to the capital city of Valletta for those visiting Malta. Hannah and her group primarily explored the city on foot or used the bus service, which she described as “super convenient and cheap”.
She suggested: “Just spend a day in Valletta, roaming around, street dining, going to the boutique shops, wandering in and out of the gardens, seeing the cannons being fired at the saluting battery, and checking out the harbour front.”
Hannah also endorsed the Gozo, Comino and Blue Lagoon cruise. This full-day maritime excursion departs from Sliema and offers the chance to see both islands in a single day, along with various landmarks.
Content cannot be displayed without consent
According to Hannah, the cost for her and her friends was “around £29 each”. Her video attracted over 1,000 comments, with many echoing her sentiments about the country. A local resident expressed, “I am from Malta and I am so happy that you loved our little island.”
Another user exclaimed: “Malta is stunning, I would go back in a heartbeat,” while someone else remarked, “Genuinely one of my favourite European destinations ever- never gets boring.
“Omg I live in Malta, it’s so underrated,” another commenter posted.
How to get to Malta
A variety of airlines including Air Malta, Easyjet, British Airways, Ryanair, and Jet2 operate direct flights from the UK to Malta. The most frequented route is from London Heathrow to Malta International Airport, located in the capital city of Valletta.
Flights can also be booked from Bournemouth, Liverpool, Norwich, Belfast, Manchester, Bristol, Edinburgh, Birmingham, Leeds, Nottingham, and Glasgow.
Ryanair will implement a major boarding pass change this winter which will see scores of travellers forced to use digital alternatives to the traditional paper boarding passes
Ryanair’s new digital-only boarding pass policy is set to take effect in November 2025(Image: Hinterhaus Productions via Getty Images)
Like most British holidaymakers, you likely download your boarding pass onto your phone to avoid queuing at an airport kiosk or finding a printer.
While early check-in and digital boarding passes are convenient and eco-friendly, some passengers still prefer the tangible version. But Ryanair boss, Michael O’Leary, has announced that in 2025, the airline will fully transition to digital, with plans to phase out airport check-in desks altogether.
This means the company will no longer accept printed boarding passes, requiring passengers to have theirs ready for scanning on their phones.
Although this might irk those who aren’t tech-savvy, Ryanair states that 60% of its customers use digital boarding passes, with paper ones becoming less popular.
The new Ryanair policy will see the erasure of the carrier’s airport check-in desks(Image: Hinterhaus Productions via Getty Images)
At present, Ryanair also charges a hefty £55 to passengers who forget to check in and download their boarding passes before arriving at the airport. This change could potentially eliminate such hidden fees.
Ryanair confirmed that the move to mobile boarding passes will be pushed to November 3, 2025, after it was initially set to take effect by May 2025. In the lead up to the new measure, here are the boarding pass rules for the UK’s most popular airlines.
TUI
The boarding pass rules for TUI depend on whether you’re flying with them. Online check-in is available for all TUI customers travelling on TUI flights (those with flight numbers starting with TOM).
If you’ve booked through TUI but are flying with a different airline, you’ll need to check that specific airline’s website for their boarding pass regulations.
On the TUI website, passengers are informed: “To log into the airline website you will be asked for your flight reference number. Please note, this is not the same as your TUI booking reference. Your flight reference number will be a 6-character alpha-numeric code and can be found on your booking confirmation, e-ticket or in manage my booking on the TUI website.”
easyJet
easyJet promotes the use of their app for downloading mobile boarding passes to keep travel details at hand whilst also cutting down on paper waste. Nonetheless, easyJet acknowledges that some airports in their network are yet to accept mobile passes.
The comprehensive list of easyJet airport destinations requiring a printout of your boarding pass is detailed below:
ADB – Izmir
AGA – Agadir
AYT – Antalya
AQJ – Aqaba
BEG – Belgrade-Beograd
BJV – Milas Bodrum
DJE – Djerba
ESU – Essaouira
HRG – Hurghada
IVL – Ivalo
JSH – Sitia
LXR – Luxor
NBE – Enfidha-Hammamet
PRN – Pristina
RAK – Marrakech
RBA – Rabat Sale
RMF – Marsa Alam
SPX – Cairo Sphinx
SSH – Sharm El Sheikh
TIA – Tirana
TNG – Tangier Ibn Batouta
Passengers departing from these locations can still check-in online via www.easyJet.com but should remember to print out their boarding passes for flying. Additionally, note that a portion of these airports insists on a document check pre-security.
British Airways passengers can access their boarding pass view their Apple Watch(Image: Jam Press)
British Airways
British Airways gives travellers the flexibility to opt for either mobile or printed boarding passes and extends the convenience to Apple Watch users as well.
If you’ve got the British Airways app installed, it can alert you when your flight is ready for check-in. Once you’ve checked in and downloaded your boarding pass, you can access it offline on your Apple device.
Here’s how to get your boarding pass on your Apple Watch:
Download the British Airways app on your iPhone and Apple Watch.
Check in for your flight using your iPhone.
Download your boarding pass to your iPhone’s Passbook/Wallet via the British Airways app.
Scan your Passbook boarding pass at security and boarding gates.
Alternatively, you can print your boarding pass on regular paper, allowing you to bypass the kiosk and head straight through security. However, BA notes that this depends on your departure airport.
Wizz Air
Wizz Air allows passengers to present both online and printed boarding passes. To board your flight, ensure your complete the following steps:
Check in online on our website, using the WIZZ mobile app, or at the airport.
Members of a British Airways cabin crew team found themselves in a mortifying situation after being accidentally being checked into a sex hotel, complete with an anatomically detailed tub
A recent blunder led to blushes among one British Airways team
Crew members aboard a British Airways flight endured a seriously awkward night, after a booking blunder saw them being checked into a sex dungeon.
While in the stylish Italian city of Milan, it had been decided that the colleagues would spend the night at the Motel Mo.om, a popular modern hotel with good transport links.
Unfortunately, in what has been described as a “comical mistake”, the team reportedly found themselves bedding down for the night at the similarly named Mo. om Hotel. Although at a glance, the names of these hotels appear almost indistinguishable, this is where any comparisons end.
It soon became clear to the crew that this was no ordinary establishment, as they took in the bondage-themed beds and vagina-shaped spa tub. And if these features didn’t drive the point home, the incessant “moaning and groaning” from fellow patrons certainly did.
Noises from excitable fellow guests interrupted their much-needed shuteye
A source told The Sun: “Crew were booked into a pay-by-the-hour sex hotel last Thursday. They were confronted with bondage sets, mirrored ceilings, human dog cages and leather harnesses. It was obvious that this wasn’t the place the crew was supposed to stay.”
Although there are humorous elements to the mishap, this sleeping situation was decidedly less than ideal for airline staff, for whom adequate rest is imperative.
As the source explained: “It was a comical mistake by the hotel booking team, but had serious implications. Some of the team who stayed in the sex dungeon didn’t get any sleep, so they couldn’t operate on BA services the following day. They were kept awake by thrill seekers moaning and groaning all day and night.”
Crew members were allegedly left horrified by ‘suspicious fluids in their rooms which made their skin crawl’
As well as struggling through “constant noise” as a “24 hour orgy” raged on, employees allegedly also had to deal with witnessing “suspicious fluids in their rooms which made their skin crawl”.
A British Airways spokesperson told the Mirror: “A small number of crew were moved to unapproved hotel rooms following availability issues with our usual accommodation provider. This happened without our knowledge, and we’re urgently investigating to prevent it from taking place again.”
12 crew members were affected, with British Airways said to be now ‘urgently investigating’
It’s understood that 12 crew members spent one evening in the unapproved accommodation, due to availability issues with the airline’s usual provider.
There was also thankfully no delay to the flight that the staff members had been scheduled to operate, meaning they were able to get back to normal after their unexpected stay.
It was announced yesterday that only British Airways Premium Plus American Express cardholders — not those using the free British Airways American Express card — can now earn up to 2,500 tier points per year when using their card for everyday spending
The update will impact those seeking BA tier status(Image: Getty Images)
A major update on British Airways’ tier points scheme has been announced.
Following the airline’s recent overhaul of its loyalty scheme, British Airways and American Express customers have been eager to find out how many tier points they can now earn with the British Airways Premium Plus Amex card.
It was announced yesterday that only British Airways Premium Plus American Express cardholders — not those using the free British Airways American Express card — can now earn up to 2,500 tier points per year when using their card for everyday spending.
The number of tier points you earn annually determines your membership level: blue, bronze, silver, or gold. Everyone starts at bronze, and can progress through the tiers based on how much they spend.
Higher-tier statuses unlock perks such as complimentary seat selection, priority check-in, additional baggage allowance, and access to British Airways’ airport lounges.
Here’s how many Tier Points are required for each level:
Bronze – 3,500 Tier Points
Silver – 7,500 Tier Points
Gold – 20,000 Tier Points
To reach silver, you could spend £5,000 on British Airways flights and holiday packages — each pound spent earns one tier point. The rest of the required points could be earned through spending on the British Airways Premium Plus Amex card, if you have one.
Here’s how the new tier point earning system works for cardholders:
750 tier P=points are awarded when you spend £15,000 after enrolling in the offer.
An additional 750 tier points are awarded after spending a further £5,000 (total: £20,000).
A final 1,000 tier points are awarded after spending another £5,000 (total: £25,000).
This brings the maximum total to 2,500 tier points earned via everyday spending. If this sounds confusing, there’s more: the tier points system is separate from Avios points.
Tier points determine your membership level and associated airport perks. Avios points, on the other hand, are used to claim rewards such as free flights.
Travellers flying with British Airways or its Oneworld partners earn Avios to use toward future flights. Amex cardholders have long earned Avios on their spending. However, prior to the changes in April, cardholders could not earn tier points through everyday spending.
Here’s how Avios earning works:
The free British Airways American Express card earns 1 Avios per £1 spent.
The Premium Plus card earns 1.5 Avios per £1 spent, but has a £300 annual fee.
It’s important to note that the 2,500 tier point offer is not available to holders of the fee-free British Airways Amex Card.
If you do have the British Airways Premium Plus American Express card, make sure to enroll in the Tier Point scheme through the American Express app or website to begin collecting points.
While air passengers are allowed to carry alcoholic drinks into the cabins of most UK airlines, there are strict rules surrounding quantity, type and consumption
Flight attendants can sell you beers, wines and spirits on-board – but you’re banned from opening your own pre-bought bottles(Image: Getty)
Travellers are widely banned from consuming their own alcohol on-board a flight, but they are allowed to bring sealed bottles into the cabin.
There’s a whole host of restrictions travellers need to be aware of, and flicking open a can of beer or popping open a bottle of wine, unless you’ve bought it from a flight attendant, is strictly prohibited on all airlines.
It’s more than likely you’ve bought a discounted bottle of your favourite tipple at the duty-free shop in the departures lounge, but you will need to wait until you land to enjoy it responsibly.
Ryanair allows passengers to bring food and non-alcoholic beverages on board, so long as they fit within the airline’s cabin bag size and weight restrictions. However, hot drinks and alcoholic beverages are not permitted onboard.
You can carry alcohol purchased at duty free shops into the cabin(Image: Getty Images/Collection Mix: Subjects RF)
Additionally, alcohol with an ABV of more than 70% (140% proof) is not permitted onto the aircraft either through carry-on luggage or in your checked-in baggage.
If you wish to drink onboard, duty-free purchases of tobacco and alcohol may also be available on all flights to the EU from non-EU member states.
Jet2 explicitly states that passengers may not bring alcohol on board their carriers for the purposes of consumption whilst on the aircraft, with the brand reminding passengers that it is an offence to be drunk on any aircraft.
Only alcoholic drinks purchases on board can be consumed during the flight, but the airline reserves the right to serve alcoholic drinks to passengers at their absolute discretion.
Jet2 also states that passengers are not permitted to carry: “Items which in our reasonable opinion are unsuitable for carriage by reason of their weight, size or character or which are fragile or perishable or which may affect the safety, health or comfort of other passengers or crew, this may include hot or strong smelling foods and drinks”.
British Airways
When it comes to the carry of alcohol into the cabin, British Airways says there is no limit on the number of alcoholic beverages you can travel with as long as their alcohol volume is below 24%. Though consumption of your own alcoholic beverages onboard is prohibited.
Still, you can carry up to five litres of alcohol with an ABV between 24% and 70%. This can travel in your cabin bag if you purchased it in the airport duty-free shop. Drinks above 70% alcohol volume are not permitted on board any British Airways aircraft in either checked baggage or hand baggage.
Some airlines provide complimentary alcohol on long-haul flights, though they reserve the right to restrict the service of alcohol(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
TUI
TUI passengers are permitted to bring alcoholic beverages into the cabin with some stipulations. Alcoholic beverages containing more than 24% but no more than 70% ABV are permitted in checked baggage and carry-on baggage.
The beverages need to be in retail packaging and be no more than five litres per individual receptacle, with no more than five litres total net quantity per person for such beverages.
easyJet
easyJet passengers are permitted to bring alcohol bought in the airside departure lounge into the cabin, as long as it’s unopened. Alcohol must be lower than 70% abv, and packed either in an airport shopping bag or in your cabin bag.
It’s strictly forbidden to drink any alcohol that has not been purchased on board the aircraft and those found consuming their own alcohol may face prosecution.
Being drunk on a flight: The rules
Ryanair’s CEO Michael O’Leary has more recently spoken out about drunk passengers causing mayhem on-board, after binge-drinking in the airport before getting onto the plane. In some heated incidents, brawls have erupted and cabin crew members have been assaulted.
He has called for a two-drink maximum restriction at airport bars to clamp down on this issue, which is not just confined to the budget airline. In the UK, it’s a criminal offence to board an aircraft while drunk, or to be drunk while on-board.
Fines of up to £5,000 can be slapped on offending passengers with up to two years in prison. Drunk customers who cause chaos mid-flight could face a huge £80,000 bill to cover the airline’s costs if it is forced to divert.
Travel Supermarket says: “The law also gives cabin crew significant authority. They have the right to refuse to serve alcohol to any passenger and if they believe someone is drunk, they can take measures to restrain them if necessary.”
A fascinating Sky Documentary airing tonight tells the shocking scandal of British Airways Flight 149, that was held as a hostage of war by Saddam Hussein in 1990
06:00, 11 Jun 2025Updated 06:57, 11 Jun 2025
Jennifer and John Chappell, child hostages who were on Flight 149
Jolting, rocking and explosions left the passengers on a British Airways flight terrified before their flight became a hostage of war. The extraordinary – and until recently, officially denied – scandal is told in the fascinating Sky Docs and NOW TV documentary Flight 149: Hostage Of War (on tonight, June 11th, at 9pm). It explores the unbelievable story of what happened when a civilian plane unwittingly touched down in the middle of a warzone in 1990.
Jennifer Chappell was just 12 years old when she was one of those taken hostage in Kuwait on Flight 149 – and the terror of those four months has left her traumatised for life. She says: “My future was stolen. The danger was very real and present, there were soldiers with guns. It was such a horrible experience. That was the last shred of my childhood gone.”
A hostage thriller played out when British civilians landed in a warzone(Image: Alamy Stock Photo)
The tragedy unfolded on August 2, 1990, just after Saddam Hussain’s forces stormed Kuwait, when BA Flight 149 stopped there to refuel on route from London Heathrow to Madras. Jennifer, who was travelling with her mum, dad and older brother John, recalls: “I was looking out of the window and I saw two planes go past and then I saw things fall from the bottom. I thought I was seeing a horrible midair collision.” Then came the realisation it was bombs.
The passengers and crew found themselves trapped, held as hostages by Hussein, becoming pawns in a rapidly escalating international crisis. For over three decades, the British government denied any prior knowledge of the invasion, but new information has come to light and some of the hostages are taking the British government and BA to court to seek justice and the truth. Passenger Barry Manners says: “I’d like the unvarnished truth.”
*Flight 149: Hostage Of War airs on Sky Documentaries and
There’s plenty more on TV tonight – here’s the best of the rest..
SPEED CAMERAS: ARE THEY OUT TO GET YOU? 5, 8pm
Are speed cameras targeting us for extra cash, or are they innocently keeping us safe? Well obviously we could all just drive a bit slower, but this tongue-in-cheek show is packed with drivers complaining about these “sneaky” cash cows. In England and Wales in 2023, we racked up 2.6 million speeding offences, costing motorists over £200 million. The money goes to central government where it can be spent on anything.
Not ideal says motoring expert Quentin Wilson, who says: “If the public saw that the revenue raised from speeding fines made a visible difference, then perhaps the public would be more behind them.” However, Chief Constable Jo Shiner, National Police Chiefs Council lead for roads policing, says: “We should be trying to educate people that there’s a speed limit for a reason and it’s there to make our road’s safer.” This documentary also looks at 20mph roads, the impact of driving awareness courses and meets people looking at our driving behaviour, all hoping to slow Britain down.
EXTRAORDINARY, ITV2, 10.05pm
The return of this sharp, fresh sitcom that is set in a world where everyone over the age of 18 develops a superpower. Everyone that is, except for Jen. Breathing new life into the over-done superhero genre, this follows Jen (Máiréad Tyers) as she struggles to be the only adult she knows who is a completely ordinary human. Her best friend Carrie (Sofia Oxenham) can channel spirits of the dead, while friend Kash (Bilal Hasna) can rewind time, like a slightly clunky superman. Watch out for Siobhan McSweeney as Mary, Jen’s mother who can control technology.
As season two starts, everyone seems to have a romantic dilemma. Carrie and Kash try to move on from their break up, while Jen works out whether to give up on on amnesiac shapeshifter Jizzlord (Luke Rollason) when she solves the mystery of his past. Jen also enrols at the clinic, hoping that a therapist can help her find her power.
EMMERDALE, ITV1, 7.30pm
The police arrive at Tug Ghyll with a search warrant. Tracy remains adamant that it’s pointless, but is gobsmacked when the police reveal Nate’s phone was found in Frankie’s playhouse. Tracy can barely control her fear as the officers lead her out to question her at the station. Tracy later spots Cain and wastes no time in making it clear she still suspects him of Nate’s murder. Battle lines are drawn. Vinny is horrified to realise he’s forgotten his and Gabby’s anniversary.
EASTENDERS, BBC1, 7.30pm
Kat is at a loss as Jean encourages her to talk to Alfie. Patrick meanwhile gives Alfie the same advice. The couple finally have a frank conversation about their issues. But when Kat mentions the video she found, Alfie is confused. Yolande opens up to Denise about the state of her relationship with Patrick. Felix tells Elaine that he saw George and Cindy together looking cosy. Drew gives Elaine a pep talk, after which she makes a shocking decision.
CORONATION STREET, ITV1, 8pm
On the morning of Craig’s memorial, Sarah is concerned to discover that Kit has already left for the day – especially as he’s making a speech. Lou continues to wind up Maria in the salon who orders her to hold the fort while she attends the memorial, but will she be welcomed? Theo assures Todd that he’s only moved out for the sake of his kids and their relationship is far from over. Sally and Tim discuss their training session with the fostering agency.
Passengers may think they’re ahead of the game by bringing their own food and drink onto the plane – but not every airline is so lax when it comes to allowing consumption on-board
Packing food in your hand luggage may lead to issues if you aren’t up to date on the latest rules(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Most UK airlines allow passengers to carry food in both their hand luggage and checked baggage, though it is the quantity that may vary.
If you are planning to bring food into an aeroplane for consumption at your end destination, you should also keep in mind the customs regulations for the country you are visiting, as they all differ. Every passenger will have their hand luggage screened by security ahead of boarding – and it is here that people carrying specific items may be pulled up on what they’ve packed.
See below for a list of some of the most popular UK carriers and what they say about bringing food on-board a flight.
If you’re planning to bring your own food to avoid the in-flight meal, keep in mind not all airlines permit hot food(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Ryanair permits passengers to bring food and non-alcoholic beverages on board, so long as they fit within the airline’s cabin bag size and weight restrictions. However, hot drinks and alcoholic beverages are not permitted onboard.
Baby food is subject to more lenient liquid rules. Ryanair mandates that if you are travelling with an infant (8 days-2 years), there is no limit to the amount of baby milk, powdered milk, sterilised water and baby food you can bring onboard. Additionally, baby food does not need to be placed in transparent plastic bags like other liquids.
easyJet
Yes, easyJet passengers can bring food into the cabin. However, when it comes to liquid foods, the carrier’s 100ml limit on liquids and gels still applies. That means large quantities of soups and custards are not permitted.
Only alcohol bought in the airport departure lounge and unopened can be brought into the cabin. It must also be lower than 70% abv and stored in either your cabin bag or an airport shopping bag. Passengers are forbidden from drinking their own purchased alcohol on board and can face prosecution for doing so.
Baby food, sterilised water and milk are the only exceptions to the 100mL liquid maximum. However, easyJet warns there is still a 2L maximum and you may be asked to taste the food for security purposes.
British Airways
The British Airways website states that passengers: “Can take solid foods like sandwiches, biscuits, fruit, nuts, etc. into the cabin but the same restrictions for liquids apply to liquid foods, e.g. drinks, soups, sauces, jam or jelly.”
The carrier also warns passengers to verse themselves in the restrictions of the country that are travelling to and from. “The country of your destination may restrict the types of food allowed into the country, e.g. meat, fresh fruit and vegetables are forbidden by many countries.”
TUI
TUI passengers are permitted to bring food into the cabin, but the airline advises passengers to pack “low-risk food such as pre-made sandwiches and snacks that can be eaten cold.” This is because refrigerators and microwaves are not available for passenger use. That said, flight crews are able to warm milk bottles for infants in hot water as needed.
Jet2
Jet2 does not permit passengers to bring “hot or strong smelling foods and drinks” onto their aircrafts(Image: Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Jet2 does not clearly outline its hand luggage restrictions when it comes to food. However, the airline does state that passengers are not permitted to carry: “Items which in our reasonable opinion are unsuitable for carriage by reason of their weight, size or character or which are fragile or perishable or which may affect the safety, health or comfort of other passengers or crew, this may include hot or strong smelling foods and drinks”.
Jet2 also doesn’t allow hot drinks or hot food on their planes. It also says you cannot bring food onboard if it’s not allowed by the laws of the country you’re flying from, to, or over.
BA has cited security concerns over potential AI-powered location identification as the main reason for the ban, which follows another set of photo rules for staff that was introduced in 2023
12:02, 05 Jun 2025Updated 13:47, 05 Jun 2025
BA has introduced a new staff photo policy(Image: Handout)
British Airways staff have been banned from posting photos during layovers in popular destinations, it has been reported.
The UK’s flag carrier has implemented strict new social media restrictions aimed at stopping cabin crew from sharing layover snaps from their accommodation in locations such as the Maldives, Cape Town and Singapore.
The airline has not implemented the ban in a bid to ruin all of the fun, but instead to mitigate any potential security risks. BA has cited security concerns over potential AI-powered location identification as the main reason for the ban.
It claims that sophisticated computer software could analyze seemingly innocent background details to identify specific hotel locations and crew accommodation patterns, potentially putting the flight staff in jeopardy.
Now, crew members must delete such photos and videos from their personal accounts, even private ones. Aviation A2Z reports that all British Airways members, including pilots and cabin crew, are affected.
Are you a BA staff member with an opinion on the ban? Email us at [email protected]
The airline has cited security as the reason for the ban(Image: NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Get Ready With Me videos – in which people film themselves putting on their outfit for the day – filmed in hotel rooms and bathrooms are now banned. Outfit of the Day content showing off BA uniform is also on the scrapheap.
Fun photos taken in hotel pools, at private beaches and in the lobby areas are also now forbidden.
Back in February 2023, BA introduced a raft of new rules that stopped staff from posting videos and pictures while they were “professionally engaged” in their duties. That included workers on security checks, passenger service, and operational activities.
Those rules were designed to clamp down on cabin crew members documenting their lives for TikTok and Instagram followers. A ban on sharing photos of crew sat inside aircraft engines was also brought in.
Staff were unhappy at the time, with the following backlash leading BA to clarify that crew could still share photos in their uniform, so long as they weren’t actively working.
A BA spokesperson said: “The safety of our people is really important to us and as a responsible employer, we’re continuously looking at how we can improve their security.”
A former British Airways cabin crew member has lifted the lid on the most germ-ridden parts of a plane – and passengers may be alarmed to realise it’s hard to avoid
A former flight attendant says this one item is a must-have when travelling(Image: Getty Images/500px Plus)
A former British Airways flight attendant has revealed the dirtiest parts of a plane – and four of them are seat components in the cabin.
Jane Hawkes, a former flight attendant for British Airways, shared the best tips and tricks on how to make your journey as comfortable as possible – and has urged passengers to carry either a bottle of hand sanitiser or a packet of anti-bacterial wipes before sitting comfortably.
She added: “When travelling on a plane, where possible, avoid touching any areas unless you’ve sanitised them.” A small pocket-size bottle of hand sanitiser retails from around £1.22 – and can be bought in advance of from the departures lounge at an airport.
A former flight attendant urged travellers on bringing hand sanitiser and anti-bacterial wipes (Image: Getty Images)
It’s common to see airline staff racing around the cabin between passengers disembarking and boarding. During this quick turnaround, rubbish is picked up and a clean up is undertaken. This is along with all the routine checks they have to do.
It is a common belief that not every seat is scrutinised for its cleanliness, therefore, Jane has recommended anyone planning to fly this summer to carry hand sanitiser and anti-bacterial wipes in the hand luggage. This is so you can make sure your immediate area is germ-free.
The ‘worst offending areas’
And, according to Jane, she said: “Aircraft are only ever deep-cleaned if they’re taken in for maintenance.” Listing what she claims are the “worst offending areas”, she added: “The worst offending areas are tray tables, armrests, seas and headrests, so always give them a wipe down before using,” she added.
British Airways’ website states the airline ensures that all key surfaces are clean after every flight and all aircrafts are deeply cleaned every day. They explained: “The air on all British Airways flights is fully recycled once every two to three minutes through HEPA filters, which remove microscopic bacteria and virus clusters with over 99% efficiency, equivalent to hospital operating theatre standards.”
Another benefit of carrying anti-bacterial gel and wipes is that it could help prevent the spread of any illnesses – something that is relatively common on a flight due to the close proximity of people.
In Jane’s description of unhygienic practices on-board a flight, she also touched upon travellers who opt to take off their socks and shoes. She said: “Another ‘complete no-no’? Travellers who ‘take off their shoes and socks’ are breaking every etiquette rule in the book. ‘I’ve seen passengers walk barefoot around the cabin, yuck.”
Airport security rules can be confusing for many travellers with liquid restrictions in place at many flight hubs – but there is one common food item that is banned
Don’t get caught out at airport security [stock image](Image: Getty Images)
Airport shops are hitting passengers in the pocket by charging up to a staggering 48 per cent more for snacks and drinks compared to high street prices. In a move away from complimentary in-flight refreshments, British Airways is one of the airlines now asking customers to splash out on food during short-haul journeys with their paid-for menu options.
But be advised, packing certain common food items might land you in hot water at security checks, potentially leading to a search or even confiscation of your beloved nibbles. Whilst some UK airports have started updating their security measures, the liquid restrictions linger stubbornly across numerous global terminals.
The official guidance on the UK Government’s website currently states: “If you do take liquids in your hand luggage containers must hold no more than 100ml.
“Containers must be in a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag, which holds no more than a litre and measures approximately 20cm x 20cm and contents must fit comfortably inside the bag so it can be sealed.”
Beware, traveller: while it’s widely known that water and beverages are part of the liquid restrictions, many are unaware that certain foods, including hummus, also qualify under this category due to their consistency, reports the Express.
It’s not just the popular chickpea spread either; other favourites like guacamole and salsa are similarly subjected to these stringent security stipulations.
A travel guru from Ski Vertigo has issued a warning to holidaymakers: “Certain food items, especially those that are liquid or gel-like, such as peanut butter, jam, or yoghurt, are subject to the liquids rule.
“Solid foods generally pass through security without issues, but any food that can be spread, squirted, or poured may be confiscated if it exceeds the allowed liquid limits. Food items can also trigger additional screening if they appear suspicious on the X-ray.”
Despite some UK airports adopting cutting-edge CT scanners that could see the end of the current liquid restrictions, many still lag behind in this tech upgrade.
Even if you’re flying out from a UK airport equipped with these new scanners, remember that numerous international airports continue to enforce the traditional liquid regulations.
A Department for Transport spokesperson said: “Passengers should continue to check security requirements with their departure airport before travelling.”
So, for now, it’s wise for travellers to stick to the established liquid guidelines until further notice, as there’s no confirmed date for when the rules will be universally relaxed.
Universal Orlando Resort’s Epic Universe in Florida has opened its doors – with five new worlds to explore within – so naturally I went along to sample the magical delights
Alison Graves Lifestyle and Features Editor
05:15, 01 Jun 2025Updated 12:39, 01 Jun 2025
Enjoy the thrills and spills in Orlando’s newest theme park with adventure around every corner(Image: PR HANDOUT)
Universal Orlando Resort’s newest theme park, Epic Universe, has changed the face of the landscape and what it means to enjoy a holiday full of thrills and spills.
The £7 billion theme park is an immersive, multisensory experience with storytelling at its core. The resort’s fourth theme park and the first to open in 25 years, it invites guests to “explore vibrant worlds filled with extraordinary adventures that go beyond their wildest imaginations” – and it really is magical.
With 50 awe-inspiring attractions,entertainment, dining and shopping experiences in its new park, the Universal parks make up a 700-acre resort space.
But it’s not just the stunning scenery, experiences and rides that blew me away – my entire group were wowed by the culinary experiences inside the park. Forget burgers, hotdogs and popcorn – although readily available if you fancy – I dined on exquisite seafood from scallops to King Oysters at Atlantic and freshly made Dim Sum and Ramen noodles at The Blue Dragon, both in Celestial Park.
I also found the best purple pizza called Pizza Lunare in Pizza Moon, complete with an Ube crust – the chunks of roasted garlic were to die for – and melt-in-the-mouth beef brisket at The Oak & Star Tavern.
Let’s explore the worlds a little closer for when you plan your first visit…
You’ll find five worlds ahead of you to explore once you step through the stunning Chronos(Image: PR HANDOUT)
Celestial Park
Step through the Chronos – the impressive first portal tower and entrance to the park that when ‘powered’ will align to open up five magical portals for visitors to explore.
I first enjoyed Celestial Park – the cosmic heart of Epic Universe and so much more than just a starting point. Local ‘Celestians’ who inhabit here tend to the lush, tree-lined walkways and I found myself whisked into a whimsical world of greenery, tropical flowers, fountains and ponds.
Everything here is connected heavily to astrology, from the first sight of Luna, goddess of the moon, who oversees the night’s luminescence by her Neptune Pools, to the far side of the park where Apollo, god of the sun, rests. Even the rides are well themed – I enjoyed a gentle sway on the Constellation Carousel and zipped at 62mph on Stardust Racers, a dual racing rollercoaster across 5,000ft of track, which is the park’s top thrill ride for speed and height.
Celestial Park interweaves the other worlds and acts as a calming decompression from the extremities of themes and music in each world. Grab a cocktail at Bar Zenith, watch the fountain show and marvel in the sheer beauty.
MUST DO Visit North Star Wintry Wonders, an all-year Christmas store where it really snows outside – even under the hot Florida sun.
Dark Universe
The storytelling continues as you move through this spooky portal and into monstrous Darkmoor Village. It makes sense – Universal is the pioneer of horror, after all.
Dr Victoria Frankenstein, Victor Frankenstein’s great great-granddaughter, is the proud owner of this world’s central focus – Frankenstein Manor – and she has captured all the monsters but she’s having some trouble with Dracula. Ride Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment as you navigate the catacombs of the manor to “help” Victoria (you won’t help – but you will scream).
Can you escape the terrifying catacombs at Dr Victoria Frankenstein’s Manor? I did…. just!(Image: PR HANDOUT)
The ride’s technology is phenomenal and the animatronics are creative masterpieces. Fear not, it’s suitable for all ages.
Take time to explore the details. Look out for a little girl statue of Maria (a character from the 1931 Frankenstein film, who accidentally drowns), listen to sounds from beneath the vampire well and head to the Blazing Blade Tavern for a fiery sight to behold.
MUST DO Grab a bite to eat at Das Stakehouse. The theming is almost better than the food – and the food is delicious.
Super Nintendo World
Everything moves, spins, jumps and wobbles in Super Nintendo World. It’s a gaming world for everyone – even the big kids who are young at heart.
Providing one of the coolest portals (the walkway into each world), I entered via a Super Mario Warp Pipe and arrived inside Princess Peach’s Castle before exiting into a world of jaw-dropping colour and musical joy. Glistening golden coins, stomping Koombas, sliding 1-Up mushrooms and snapping Piranha Plants were everywhere as I looked across to Bowser’s Castle.
This is where I gave Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge a go and my dismal points were made up for by the fun and laughter I had hurtling turtle shells and banana peels at my friends (virtually, of course – the race car game, where we’re up against all the usual Super Mario bad guys, is played via a headset).
The character meet and greets here are sweet for youngsters – Toad is a rotund delight for toddlers, Mario and Luigi are cool for pre-teens and even the too-cool-for-school teenagers won’t be able to resist Donkey Kong.
Don’t miss the fabulous rollercoaster Minecart Madness – it’s a bumpy ride but the jumps over “missing” sections of the track are thrilling.
Prepare for a sensory sensation in Super Nintendo World – all ages will love it here
MUST DO Buy a $45 Power-Up wristband. It’s vital for playing the in-world mini games, collecting coins and banking some exclusive park stamps and badges, which connects to an app on your mobile phone and creates family friendly competition.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Ministry of Magic
This world makes the Wizarding Worlds at Universal Orlando Resort a trio – also made up of Diagon Alley in Universal Studios and Hogsmeade in Islands Of Adventure.
Step inside the magical streets of 1920s Paris, where the likes of Newt Scamander hangs out. Known as Place Cachée, this world is a fan delight, merging the magic of Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them in Paris, with the wonders of Harry Potter.
I hopped on the Métro-Floo to the British Ministry Of Magic for Dolores Umbridge’s trial for her crimes against magic on the mesmerising dark ride, Battle At The Ministry. Expect magical creatures and spells galore – and make time for the show, Le Cirque Arcanus. The puppetry will leave you speechless.
MUST DO Try a Gigglewater in Le Gobelet Noir – a bar owned by Nicolas Flamel, the alchemist who created the Philosopher’s Stone.
How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk
The largest of all the worlds at Epic Universe,the Viking village of Berk is breathtaking. On entry, I was faced with two 40ft carved wooden statues, guarding the village. This world is set after the second film, where there’s peace and harmony between man and dragon.
Look out for The Untrainable Dragon live show, which has the most beautiful score, with singers and actors akin to the talent of a West End show. And be sure to try the mac and cheese cone at Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel – it’s the novelty dish I never knew I needed.
MUST DO Look to the skies. Here you’ll find actual flying dragons – drones to us adults (don’t tell the kids), but they are very realistic.
HOW TO BOOK
Universal Orlando Resort
All Parks tickets are available through British Airways Holidays from £439 per person.
British Airways Holidays offers seven nights at Universal Stella Nova Resort from £829 per person, travelling on selected dates in January 2026. Book by 9 June. For reservations visit britishairways.com/en-gb/destinations/orlando/holidays-inorlando
