Instead, they must give the seat next to a child to the person accompanying them if they are under the age of 14.
The same rule applies to pregnant women or anyone with reduced mobility.
Ryanair used to make adults travelling with children pay one reserved seat fee and then they could select seats beside them for up to four children.
This meant for a usually for a family of four, and additional fee of £8 each way, per adult – if both parents wanted to sit with their children.
= Potential savings: £32
Hidden carry-on and hand luggage fees
Under new rules, airlines will not be allowed to have hidden hand or cabin luggage feesCredit: Alamy
Another trick by airlines to get more money was to charge for suitcases, sometimes even at the gate.
Under the new rules, there will be a baseline for ticket pricing where comparison sites and airlines have to display fares including cabin luggage, from the offset.
Passengers will be allowed a personal item each, which can measure up to 40x30x15cm and a small cabin suitcase weighing up to 7kg.
If you do travel bag-free, some airlines may offer a discount.
For Ryanair, passengers could be set back between £46 and £75 for a standard 10kg cabin bag that hasn’t been booked.
This would rise to between £70 and £75 for any oversized cabin bag, each way.
= Potential savings: £300
Boarding pass fees
Airlines will no longer be able to charge to print off boarding passesCredit: Alamy
Some airlines force you to download their app or create an account just to get your boarding pass.
And if you didn’t and instead wanted a paper boarding pass, often you are forced to pay.
However, under the new rules, airlines cannot force passengers to use the app or charge for a physical boarding pass.
For example, with Wizz Air if you check-in at the airport and they print off your boarding pass this will set you back between £33.92 and £42.20 per person, per way.
= Potential savings:£337.60
Name correction fees
If you accidentally made a typo or spelt your name wrong, you’d often have to pay a fee to have this corrected.
Airlines will no longer be able to charge for correcting a basic typo on a ticket.
A number of airlines allow for allow minor corrections of up to three characters for free, such as Wizz Air and Ryanair.
However, if there is anything more than this or the correction is made less than 48hours before your flight, then Ryanair charges between £115 to £160.
= Potential savings: £640
‘No show’ flight cancellations
If you miss your outbound flight, your return flight will no longer be allowed to be cancelledCredit: Alamy
For some reason or another, you may miss or skip the outbound leg of your return trip.
This previously has resulted in the airline cancelling travellers‘ return flight and as a result, the passenger is forced to buy a completely new ticket – often last-minute and therefore more expensive.
This could even cost thousands depending on the location.
Soon this will change though as passengers with a return trip will be allowed to use their return flight, even if they didn’t take their outbound flight, without any additional fees.
STUDENTS have been left thouands of pounds out of pocket after a UK travel company unexpectedly went bust.
Customers have called the news “gut-wrenching”, as bosses say they “deeply regret” the decision to shut close after nearly three decades.
Global Vision International (GVI) has been plunged into liquidation after 28 yearsCredit: Getty – ContributorNow, those who booked holidays with the company are unsure if they will get their money backCredit: GVI
The Exeter-based company offered a range of conservation and “voluntourism” placements all over the world, becoming especially popular with school leavers and gap year students who paid to take part.
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On July 1, after 28 years, the company was plunged into liquidation in a move that bosses say they “deeply regret”.
CEO of GVI, Andrew Valentine, said in a statement: “It is with an incredibly heavy heart that I write to share that GVI is today closing its doors.”
“I deeply regret the effect that GVI’s closure will have on staff, projects and customers, and we are committed to providing clear information to those affected as GVI goes through a formal liquidation process.”
GVI states on its website that “all current and future GVI programs have been cancelled”.
It continues to inform customer that “all impacted participants will receive formal correspondence detailing the liquidation process and instructions on how to lodge a claim”, and how to get their money back.
Amy Taylor, 21, a wildlife conservation and zoo biology student from Manchester, told BBC Newsbeat that GVI’s closure was “gut-wrenching”.
The student forked out £4,000 to pay for her once in a lifetime South Africa internship, hoping it would help her “stand out” on the job market -but now she is just filled with “disappointment”.
Linus Rowland-Bell, 23, from Liverpool worked two days a week alongside his university studies to pay for a programme in Peru.
Advertised as an internship in the Amazon rainforest, he found out about it through his university careers fair, paying £2,258 in total for his trip.
“The thought of all that money, all that time that I’ve saved up, that excitement completely vanishing into the ether, it was terrifying,” he told Newsbeat, after receiving the news of the liquidation.
GVI focussed on offering conversation excursions in locations such as South Africa and PeruCredit: GVICustomers are now having to deal with the liquidators to help get their money backCredit: GVI
Rowland-Bell received a full refund, but many more are waiting for more information from the liquidators.
Taylor further said she was relying on her bank to reclaim the money, as her insurance was booked through GVI.
“If I don’t get the money back, I can’t go anywhere else and I don’t really trust anyone at the moment to be able to go anywhere else.
“It didn’t seem like they were struggling – everything looked professional.”
The Sun reached out to RG Insolvency, who are overseeing GVI’s liquidation, that declined to comment.
A technical fault at the Met Office meant that National Air Traffic Services (NATS) were unable to access weather data – so planes were not safely able to take off.
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The issue delayed 155 Ryanair flights and impacted almost 30,000 of its passengers.
On July 7, Ryanair reported delays of up to three hours.
easyJet also experienced disruption too with 253 of its flights delayed.
Ryanair has now accused NATS of repeatedly failing passengers and has warned of further delays if it continues.
Ryanair Chief Operations Officer, Neal McMahon said: “Nearly three years after NATS’ catastrophic 2023 system meltdown, UK passengers are once again being delayed because NATS’ systems have failed.”
“The most astonishing part is that NATS continues to charge airlines and passengers more every year while delivering a worse service.”
As a result, Ryanair has called on NATS CEO, Martin Rolfe, to resign.
Issues have caused travellers to be delayed for up to three hoursCredit: GettyRyanair has called for urgent change to stop a summer of chaosCredit: Alamy
A NATS spokesperson told Sun Travel: “A Met Office technical issue overnight on 6/7 July meant that we were not receiving vital weather information into our NATS systems for a short period of time.
“Accurate weather information is vital for air traffic controllers and pilots in managing flights safely. As a result, some air traffic restrictions were put in place and removed soon after.
“We continue to work with the Met Office who are working to fully resolve the problem.”
A Met Office spokesperson added: “An issue we had which temporarily delayed delivery of some of our data is now remedied.
“We know customers rely on our data and we’re sorry for the disruption this caused.”
These routes include London Euston to Crewe, Birmingham to Liverpool plus Birmingham to Euston via Northampton.
The Milton Keynes to Euston and Watford Junction to St Albans Abbey routes are also expected to operate on a one train an hour basis.
LNR Train Strike: Five routes with limited service
A limited service will be in operation on the following routes only:
Birmingham – Liverpool – 1 train per hour
London Euston – Crewe – 1 train per hour
Birmingham – London Euston via Northampton – 1 train per hour
Milton Keynes – London Euston – 1 train per hour
Watford Junction – St Albans Abbey – 1 train per hour
Services will stop earlier than usual, with the last train from London to Crewe going at 3:46pm on Friday.
The last LNR service of the day from Euston will be the London to Milton Keynes Central train, departing at 5.09pm.
No LNR trains will run after 7pm on Friday, with no early morning services scheduled for Saturday and trains starting later than usual at 7am.
The Transport Salaried Staffs Association Union has called the strike amid disagreements over rest day pay.
London Northwestern Railway’s customer experience director, Jonny Wiseman, said: “We are disappointed TSSA has called further unnecessary strike action which is set to cause significant disruption for our customers. We are working hard to reach a resolution to this dispute and urge TSSA to continue talks.
“We are sorry for the inconvenience this will cause our customers and we are doing everything we can to minimise the impact as much as possible. If the strike action does go ahead we will be running a significantly reduced timetable on both dates.”
A NUMBER of holiday companies have gone bust this year leaving British travellers with cancelled holidays.
From airlines to Claudia Winkleman-approved sailing trips, the UK has had to say goodbye to many holiday companies this year – so here’s a round-up of all the travel companies that have gone bust in 2026 so far.
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A number of travel companies have gone bust this yearCredit: Alamy
Groupia Ltd
Just this week it was announced that group-based travel company Groupia Ltd has entered administration.
The company used to operate group trips such as hen and stag dos, adventure holidays and ski trips.
Any customers who have a holiday booked with the company on or before August 31 will still have their trip as planned.
However, trips from September 1 onwards have been cancelled with the company’s website sharing information on how to get a refund.
Edinburgh’s EcoJet went bust despite having never launched a flight.
The planned flights included between Edinburgh and Southampton and across Europe.
The company was originally founded in 2023 and aimed to be the world’s first electric airline.
However, in May, liquidators had been appointed at the firm.
A spokesperson said: “EcoJet was a start-up business and has no material assets.
“The members have elected to fund the liquidation process to ensure that the company’s employees receive their full statutory entitlements.”
EcoJet planned flights for between Edinburgh and Southampton and across EuropeCredit: Refer to Source
Regen Central Ltd
Regen Central Ltd used to sell package holidays to Europe and South East Asia.
However the company entered administration in January.
The company was founded in 2011 and used to have package holidays to Italy, Bali, and Thailand, as well as the Middle East, including Dubai and Saudi Arabia.
Tripsmiths (and TS Travel)
Tripsmiths and TS Travel used to operate trips across Europe including getaways to French vineyards, African safaris, Italy’s Lake Garda and city breaks.
However, the company entered administration in May.
Though, for those with trips booked with the company, bookings were being honoured and not cancelled.
For Tripsmiths used to operates a range of trips across EuropeCredit: Handout
Gold Crest Holidays
Also in January, Gold Crest Holidays entered liquidation.
The holiday company used to sell coach tours as well as short breaks to a number of European destinations including major cities and Disneyland Paris.
The 30-year-old company cancelled all future trips at the time of closure.
Salamander Voyages
Based in Belfast, Salamander Voyages used to sell private boat holidays in Turkey, Greece, Italy and Croatia.
According to The Gazette, administrators were appointed on April 22 after 23 years of business.
Luxury holidays with the company weren’t cheap though, costing around £3,000 per person.
Celeb Claudia Winkleman has even previously been a customer, commenting: “The holiday was absolutely amazing. The boat is beautiful and the crew were outstanding.
“The most relaxing week of our lives. We love you Salamander.”
Salamander Voyages used to sell private boat holidays in Turkey, Greece and ItalyCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk
Strachan Travel
Based in Lancashire, Strachan Travel used to operate bespoke holidays.
The company had been operating since 1983, but because they acted as an agent mainly selling holidays with tour operators such as TUI and Jet2, customers’ holidays were mainly unimpacted.
Ascend Airways
Ascend Airways entered liquidation back in April.
The Hertfordshire-based company used to be a ‘wet-lease’ airline, operating mainly out of London Gatwick, Stansted and Southend airports.
Ascend Airways used to ‘wet-lease’ planesCredit: Ascend Airways
Zenith Aviation
Back in May, Zenith Aviation entered administration.
A FRESH warning has been issued over a major travel item that many of us now use, that actually poses a huge threat when flying.
Over the past couple of years, power banks have caused several issues across a number of flights.
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A new warning has been made to travellers about heading on a flight with a power bank this summerCredit: Alamy
In response, airlines have introduced new measures that specify the type of power bank you can or cannot take onboard.
As the school summer holidays approach, travellers are now being reminded to carry these items in their hand luggage.
Power banks contain lithium batteries, which according to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), pose a huge risk to aircraft, with more and more devices being found in hold luggage over the past year.
The aviation body also said that the average person now takes four different lithium-powered devices on a flight.
However, they are prone to overheating, especially if they are defective and this can cause a fire.
The CAA states: “Passenger awareness remains low – over a third (36 per cent) of travellers are unaware of the dangers of packing batteries in checked baggage, even though 92 per cent fly with a mobile phone, 55 per cent with a laptop and 49 per cent with a power bank – suggesting hundreds of batteries could be incorrectly packed on a typical flight.”
While some airlines have responded to the increased use of lithium batteries by carrying containment bags – such as Virgin Atlantic and Wizz Air – they still pose the biggest risk of fire to flights.
And it’s not just power banks that have lithium batteries though and they aren’t anything new – you’ll also find them in your laptop, mobile and smart watch.
Over the past couple of years, power banks have caused a number of incidents on flightsCredit: Alamy
When an incident regarding a lithium battery occurs in the cabin, cabin crew can handle it more easily.
However, if the issue is in the hold it is a trickier problem to solve.
According to the CAA, there are around two lithium battery incidents every week.
And these incidents can cause delays as well as the plane diverting.
The rules to be aware of include taking items such as your mobile phone, vapes and power banks on board in the cabin.
If you are taking power banks, you are allowed a maximum of two and you cannot charge them during the flight.
Laptops must be switched off if they are in hold bags.
As part of its new campaign ‘Pack right, Safe flight’, the CAA added that travellers should “choose reputable suppliers and brands when buying devices and spare batteries” and that “batteries that show signs of damage, overheating, or swelling should not be used and should never be carried on an aircraft”.
Passengers need to be aware of airlines’ rules on power banksCredit: Getty
Giancarlo Buono, Director of Aviation Safety at the UK Civil Aviation Authority said: “Flying is by far the safest way to travel, and we want to keep it that way.
“Pack right for a safe flight, and that means don’t put your batteries in your checked bag. Take them into the cabin with you.
“This simple tip will make your flight safer for you, and the other passengers you’re flying with.”
Here are the rules on batteries for some of the major airlines:
British Airways
British Airways allows each passenger to carry two power banks with themCredit: Getty
You can take up to 15 battery-operated Personal Electronic Devices (PEDs) that contain lithium batteries such as laptops, tablets, smartphones, cameras, music players, smart baggage tags (e.g. Apple AirTag) onboard.
If in hand luggage, they must be switched off or placed in flight safe mode.
If in checked luggage, they must be completely switched off – not in sleep or hibernation mode.
You can only carry up to two power banks per person and they must be in the cabin in either the seat pocket or in a bag under the seat in front of you and they cannot exceed 100Wh.
Ryanair
All electronic devices must be carried in the cabin on Ryanair flightsCredit: PA
Electronic devices and spare lithium batteries must be carried in the cabin only.
Each passenger can carry up to 15 electronic devices for personal use in the cabin “including but not limited to: smartphones, tablets, laptops, cameras, handheld gaming consoles, headphones”.
Each passenger can only carry up to two power banks and these are included in the overall limit of 20 spare lithium batteries – which cannot exceed 100Wh.
Ryanair adds: “Spare lithium batteries and power banks must be carried on the passenger’s person or in the under-seat cabin bag stowed under the seat in front.
“Power banks and spare lithium batteries must not be placed in cabin baggage stored in the overhead lockers.“
Power banks cannot be recharged when onboard or during the flight.
EasyJet
Power banks cannot be used onboard an easyJet flightCredit: AFP
EasyJet has a limit of 15 electronic devices per passenger, which must be 12V or less and 100Wh or less.
When it comes to power banks, Wh ratings cannot exceed 160Wh for lithium batteries, and only two can be carried per passenger.
EasyJet states: “Power banks are prohibited from use on easyJet aircraft and must not be used to charge other devices.
“Power banks must be carried in carry-on baggage only, and it is recommended that power banks are carried where they can be monitore, d i.e. on your person.”
Virgin Atlantic
Power banks cannot be charged when onboard Virgin Atlantic flightsCredit: Alamy
For Virgin Atlantic, you can travel with up to five spare batteries and/or power banks, depending on their watt-hour (Wh) rating.
All batteries and power banks must be able to fit inside the airline’s onboard Fire Containment Bag, which measures 37×28×10cm.
The airline states: “Please keep them in an accessible place during your flight — not in the overhead locker.
“Power banks cannot be plugged into your seat’s power supply at any time.
“Power banks cannot be used to charge other devices while onboard.
“Batteries and power banks must be under 100Wh.”
Wizz Air
Wizz Air only allows one power bank per passengerCredit: Alamy
For Wizz Air, power banks cannot be used during any phase of the flight, and they are not allowed in checked luggage.
Each traveller is limited to a maximum of 20 spare batteries, including a maximum of one power bank, which cannot exceed 100Wh.
The airline states: “Power banks and e-cigarettes should be carried where they can be monitored, i.e. on the person.”
SINKHOLES found under a railway bridge have caused all trains to and from Gatwick airport to be suspended leaving thousands of passengers stranded.
The holes near Purley Bridge in South London required “urgent repairs”, engineers from Network Rail have said and the line isn’t expected to open until tomorrow morning.
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Sinkholes on a railway bridge have suspend all trains to Gatwick AirportCredit: X/@SouthernRailUKTravellers lined the road outside the airport amid the chaosCredit: X
All services between Purley and East Croydon were closed while an inspection was carried out by a structural engineer.
This has put a stop to all trains heading to Gatwick Airport and Brighton from London Bridge or London Victoria and left thousands stranded.
Travellers lined the road outside the airport while others waited hours for a rail replacement bus service.
The rail disruption has forced many passengers to drive to the airport resulting in major congestion as hundreds of cars try to get to the terminals.
The sinkholes need ‘urgent repair’ engineers have saidCredit: X/@SouthernRailUKThe railway line is set to reopen tomorrow morningCredit: X/
Many have taken to social media to express their fury and fear as tempers in the gathering crowds start to flare.
One user said: “Absolute shambles at Gatwick airport! People queuing for over 2 hours to get network replacement coach into London. Tempers flaring amongst crowds. I’m scared!!!”
Others said they were having to fork out for inflated Uber fares back to London.
They posted: “@uber why on earth do you think it’s acceptable to charge people £250 to get from Gatwick Airport to Croydon with all the trains being cancelled? Absolutely criminal!,”
Network Rail explained: “Sinkholes were spotted on the bridge, meaning that ballast, the stones that the track sits on, was falling through the gap, making the track unstable.
“We’ve since carried out a thorough inspection of the bridge and are working to safely plug the gaps so that trains can safely run again.”
Sinkholes appear when rock at the surface collapses and leaves a big hole.
They are often saucer-shaped and can form for many reasons.
A London Gatwick spokesperson said: “There are currently no trains running between Gatwick Airport and London Victoria or London Bridge due to blocked rail lines at Purley.
“Passengers travelling to the airport are advised to consider alternative routes and allow extra time for their journey.
“For those travelling from Gatwick Airport into London, rail replacement bus services are operating between the airport and East Croydon.
“Due to high demand, passengers at the airport may experience longer waiting times for rail replacement services, and we appreciate your patience while alternative transport is in place.”
Network Rail later took to X to apologise for the disruption and said the lines had to be closed “for the safety of passengers”.
“Over the course of the afternoon our engineers have carried out thorough inspections on the bridge and have worked to plug the sinkholes, allowing trains to safely run again,” they said.
“Though trains are now running we do expect there to be disruption into the night so we’re urging passengers to check before travelling.
“We will be accepting today’s tickets on tomorrow’s services due to the disruption today.”
However, Southern Rail still urged passengers not to travel, saying: “You are strongly advised to delay your journey. A very limited service is now able to run, however these services are expected to be full.”
A 48-HOUR strike in Europe has already seen Eurostar trains cancelled – and more could follow.
Strikes across Italy and France today and tomorrow are impacting rail services including Eurostar trains to and from the UK.
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Eurostar services are being cancelled today and tomorrow due to strikesCredit: AFP
Cancelled Eurostar trains include the 7:12am service from Paris to London and then the 3:31pm service from London to Paris, both today.
Tomorrow, the 7:12am service from Paris to London will also be cancelled.
A number of other Eurostar trains are facing delays as well including between Paris and Brussels, which will impact Brits changing trains at Paris.
According to the Eurostar website, the cancellations are due to “strike action on the French network” and that “local and national traffic in France will be heavily disrupted”.
Passengers are being advised to keep an eye on Eurostar’s website and app for updates.
The Eurostar delays and cancellations aren’t the only trains impacted.
Across France and Italy there are nationwide strikes over the next 48 hours on rail services.
In France, strike action today is causing disruption across the entire country’s network including trains heading to Normandy, Brittany and Provence.
Trains across Italy and France are also impacted by nationwide strikesCredit: Getty
The action started at 7pm yesterday and will continue until 6am tomorrow.
According to Rail Europe, delays of between one-and-a-half hours and three hours can be expected on trains being run by TGV INOUI, OUIGO, and Eurostar.
On the other hand, in Italy, workers at state-owned rail companies such as Trenitalia, Trenord, and Trenitalia Tper will strike tomorrow from 3am until 2am on Friday.
Delays and cancellations are expected across the country including services to destinations such as Rome, Milan, Florence, Venice and Naples.
Though due to Italian laws, there will be services at peak times which include between 6am and 9am and between 6pm and 9pm.
For Brits on holiday in either Italy or France, if you are due to get on a train within the country or even on a Eurostar service, expect delays and cancellations, as well as busier train stations.
Most UK airlines have said that they don’t see any immediate threats to upcoming flights, as many have ‘hedged’ fuel costs, which is paying a set price for a period of time.
However, Ryanair has warned that budget airlines face the biggest struggle, due to the low margins.
Turkish Airlines also said they could cut flightsCredit: Alamy
The budget carrier’s boss Michael O’Leary previously warned: “If pricing stays higher for longer this summer, we think a number of our airline competitors in Europe are going to face real financial difficulties. I think there will be failures.”
And while UK flights might not be cancelled, the cost of flights is expected to only go up.
International Airlines Group (IAG), which also owns Iberia and Aer Lingus, said it will likely pass on extra costs to cover the additional £1.72billion costs of its fuel this year.
Experts have said costs could continue to go up, due to the UK’s reliance on US jet fuel.
This is because US suppliers could divert their fuel inwards due to it being the busy American holiday season, particularly for “driving season” (when domestic holidays boom).
S&P Global’s research director for fuels Eleanor Budds told Telegraph: “Prices could rise again. The UK is replacing a good part of its imports. If the US can’t keep up those volumes, [the UK] is very exposed”.
WE might have racked up hundreds of flights between us but that doesn’t mean the team at Sun Travel never make mistakes.
Here are some of the silly things we’ve fallen for on holiday – and how to make sure you don’t too.
Underestimating airport queues with EES
From EES queues to lost passports – even we fall for some of the silliest travel mistakesCredit: PA
I consider myself an airport aficionado – always allowing just the right amount of time to get through an airport and to the gate on time – and while that works in the UK, it doesn’t always abroad.
In some international airports you have to have your passport checked twice – once before security and once afterwards. Many forget about the second security check, which can have long queues.
And with the recent introduction of the European Entry/Exit System seeing some passengers miss their flights back to the UK as queues build up, it’s more important than ever to check the lay of the land.
On a flight back from Rhodes a few years ago, my husband dismissed my claims that we needed to leave time for passport control, preferring to enjoy his last pint of Mythos in the departure lounge.
So when I finally did manage to drag him to the gate – and discovered a queue of more than 100 people trying to filter through two customs desks – there were some choice words between us (mainly me saying: “I told you so!”)
Remember this summer, if you have not done passport control at the same time as security, make sure you leave enough time to get to your gate and do the checks there. Lisa Minot, Head of Travel
Booking a late flight home without a late hotel check out
It always seems logical to book the earliest flight out and the latest flight home – because why wouldn’t you want to make the most of your getaway? I tend to forget about the logistics, however. What will I actually do on the last day when hotel checkout is at 10 or 11am?
It’s an error I’ve made (embarrassingly) too many times now, enduring a late night flight home after a day of lugging my suitcase around in sweaty temperatures.
Of course, most hotels allow you to leave luggage at reception for the day, but I like to be able to shower, too – especially if I’ve been out in the sun all day.
Best thing to do is request a late check out. Most hotels will charge a small fee for this and the length of extra time given will vary, although if you’re lucky and no one is checking into your room that day, you may be allowed ample extra time at no charge.
It’s also worth asking if there is changing room or shower you can use. Hotels often allow guests to use the facilities on check out day and usually accommodate for this by offering a space to get changed and freshen up ahead of the journey home. Sophie Swietochowsi, Assistant Travel Editor
Visiting Europe on Sundays – when everything is shut
Spending a Sunday in Europe can often be met with closed attractions
That means cramming in as much as possible to a weekend, heading off after work on a Friday and leaving on a Sunday.
However, in lots of places in Europe, you will struggle to find much to do on a Sunday, meaning you really only have one day to explore.
I found this out the hard way on a trip to Lille, planning to spend all Sunday exploring – only to find all of the shops and cafes completely closed. Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor
Not checking what is nearby when booking an all inclusive
The perk of a decent all-inclusive is you never have to leave the hotel – it’s all there for you.
BUT… even the best hotel will leave you wanting some outside space after a while.
The problem is, many of these big resorts require lots of land, which means they’re often far from a vibrant town and good attractions.
So don’t get caught short. However good the hotel looks, if you’re the kind of person who still wants a few independent restaurants or bars during your stay, or even just a few extra beaches to visit, make sure to have a good look at the map before you book.
I’ve been to plenty of excellent all-inclusives that are within walking distance of a nice town with a few decent local restaurants. And in other situations where it has been pretty remote, there has been an excellent local bus service that takes you to the nearest busy spots. Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel (Digital)
Fined for not checking in before the airport
Make sure to check in early if you are flying with Wizz AirCredit: Getty
In the fun and chaos of getting ready for a holiday, I have previously forgotten to check in to my flight and as a result had to do it at the airport.
While with most airlines there is no problem doing this, that is not the case for Wizz Air.
Due to fly to Albania, the window to check in online for my flight had closed so I had to check in, in person, at the Wizz Air desk at Stansted Airport. And to print off my boarding pass I had to fork out £35.
Needless to say, I now make sure I set aside time to check in to a flight online before heading to the airport – an easy way to avoid the nasty fee. Cyann Fielding, Travel Reporter
Not checking when big attractions are closed
Make sure the places are open on the days you visitCredit: Getty
I’m always telling readers, friends and family to do their research before they head off – but that doesn’t mean I always follow my own advice.
On a recent trip to Seoul, I was keen to spend my first day, straight off the plane, visiting the main Gyeongbokgung Palace – only to realise it was closed on the day we arrived (Tuesday).
We instead had to head to the pretty but smaller Changdeokgung Palace (which for the record, is then closed on Mondays).
Even there, our failure to prepare was a mistake. The palace itself was open and we wandered the ancient courtyards with ease, but the much-recommended Secret Garden, with its blossoms in bloom, was already sold out for the day.
While no one wants to plan any trip with military precision, it makes sense to research your bucket list must-sees before you go.
Or look to the very many experience companies like TUI Musement or Get Your Guide to take some of the pain of organising a visit away. Lisa Minot, Head of Travel
Boarding first on a plane with kids
Flying with kids is a tricky business. After the trip to the airport, getting through security and walking to the gate they’re already cranky.
So when the cabin crew offer for families to board first, the temptation is strong.
But in my experience, after travelling several times every year with my seven-year-old son, if you don’t need to squeeze a small suitcase into the overhead cabin, resist getting on that plane until the last minute.
Because your kid may well want to get settled into their seat to watch their favourite shows on the iPad, but that distraction will lose its appeal relatively quickly.
That’s particularly problematic if they close the plane doors and suddenly announce there’s an extra hour on the tarmac because of some ATC strike or other over Europe.
I always try to let my child have an extra ten minutes or so to stretch his legs, before making our way on to the flight. Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel (Digital)
Foreign scam websites
Scams are getting very sophisticated, so always do your researchCredit: Getty
When I think of falling for scam websites, I tend to picture somebody from an older generation who doesn’t use computers all too often.
But literally anybody can fall for a scam website, even a Gen-Z travel writer who spends most of her day on the internet.
On holiday in Japan, I booked myself in for what I thought was the famous Pokémon Cafe, and rocked up with my email reservation on hand, ready to try some themed dishes.
But I was turned away for turning up with a fake reservation, which I had paid £30 for. With the booking website entirely in Japanese and turning up at the top of my Google search, I had stupidly assumed it must be the one.
The remedy? Read plenty of reviews, check out Trust Pilot, and where you can, book with brands or apps whose names you already recognise. It’s always worth double-checking the website’s URL too, and showing a friend for a fresh pair of eyes to look something over before you book it.
And most importantly – don’t assume you’re too smart to be scammed! Jenna Stevens, Travel Reporter
Thinking free WiFi is enough abroad
Despite having not been a student for more than a decade, I’ll never stop wanting to save the pennies on holiday.
So why on earth would I pay for a WiFi package or an eSim?
It turns out, this is a pretty stupid way to look at the problem especially when it comes to trying to use Google Maps, call an Uber, or even message a lost mate when suddenly the free McDonald’s WiFi isn’t working.
Trust me – the eSim is worth the fiver. Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor
Packing the wrong passport – yes really
Even we have fallen victim to packing the wrong passportCredit: Alamy
As a travel journalist of 27 years, it is still astonishing to me that I have not once but TWICE left home with the wrong passport. (I blame it on the change to a new blue passport when my old pre-Brexit one ran out.)
The first time, I’d made it as far as one stop along the Thameslink train to Gatwick before glancing at my passport and realising I’d taken my husband’s old – but still current – burgundy one.
Cue a dash BACK on the train to my local station, a run across the car park to my poor husband waiting with the correct one, and a 20-minute delay that had frightened me half to death, swearing I’d never do it again.
So I have NO excuse for literally getting as far as Heathrow the second time and realising I had the wrong passport only when I tried to check in my bag.
With nowhere near enough time to travel all the way back home and to the airport again, I was forced to wake up my sleeping husband, order a cab to pick up my passport and ask the driver to bring it to me.
With just FIVE minutes to spare before the bag drop closed, my knight in shining cab arrived and handed over the passport while I threw £60 cash through the window to him. Lisa Minot, Head of Travel
Not checking in straight away so left with dud seats
There’s just minutes to go, and my finger is hovering on that check in button.
If there is one thing you should never do, its check in at the last minute.
I used to just do it whenever I remembered, rather than as soon as that 24 hour window opens – and nearly always I was left right at the back, in a middle seat, by the toilet. For 11 hours.
It’s not worth the risk of trying to beat the Ryanair luggage rulesCredit: Alamy
Sometimes for something to fully sink in – you have to make the mistake yourself.
I found this out the hard way when I flew with two different airlines – Wizz Air and Ryanair – and not realising that the requirement for hand luggage was slightly different (by a meagre 3cm, I might add).
On my flight back, I was asked to put my suitcase into the dreaded Ryanair sizer and was told to try and repack, or put it in the hold.
Note to self for next time – Ryanair do take oversized bags seriously and you will be pulled up on it. Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter
Not realising you need a passport for Eurostar
What’s the number one thing you need for your holiday? A passport, right? Well, according to my younger self, I turned up to the Eurostar in London St Pancras without it – thinking it’s train travel, why would I need it?
If I actually took a moment to think I would’ve soon realised I was travelling into another country, and therefore will always need my passport – whether I be travelling by boat, train or plane.
After forking out for another two Ubers to South London and back and paying to change my Eurostar train to a later option, I certainly learnt my lesson.
Now I pack my handbag first, and the first item I put in there? My passport. Cyann Fielding, Travel Reporter
Forgetting about ‘free attraction’ days
You might be able to find some free entry days if you know where to lookCredit: Getty
I’ve travelled to a few different destinations including San Francisco and New York (usually very expensive destinations) to discover that if I had better planned, I could have saved myself cash on some of the attractions while there.
Museums, galleries and other attractions often have days or times where admission is free.
For example, in the Golden Gate Park in San Francisco there are a number of different attractions to explore such as the Conservatory of Flowers, which usually costs $15 per adult to visit but is completely free on the first Tuesday of each month.
The Japanese Tea Garden – another popular spot in Golden Gate Park – usually costs $16 per adult to visit but is free on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays between 9am and 10am.
Likewise, in New York, the Morgan Library & Museum is free on Fridays between 5pm and 8pm.
The best way to see when different attractions are free is by picking up a travel guide – I find Lonely Planet is good at highlighting free times and days – but you can also do a quick Google search about the attractions you want to visit. Cyann Fielding Travel Reporter
Wrong plugs even in Europe
I’m guilty of being a last-minute, careless packer, throwing things in here and there without thinking about it all too much.
And so, headed on holiday to Switzerland, I threw in my Europe plug adapters without a second glance.
But it turns out I should’ve done my research first, as just because a country is in Europe, it doesn’t mean that they use an EU plug adapter.
So I ended up having to fork out some Swiss francs on a type-J plug adapter…in a country where just a bottle of water cost me £5. Jenna Stevens, Travel Reporter
Ireland, Cyprus, Malta: Type G (UK-style 3-prong plug)
Switzerland & Liechtenstein: Type J (3 round pins)
Italy: Some older hotels still only accept a Type L (3 pins in a line)
Denmark & Greenland: Type K (3 round pins in ‘smiley face’ shape)
Nearly falling for pickpocketers
One of my biggest pet peeves is slow-walking tourists looking at their phones in London and not paying attention. But I’m a hypocrite because when I visit a foreign country, I do exactly that.
And having my head down, looking at my phone is how I almost got pickpocketed in Barcelona.
Distracted trying to find my bearings meant I was the perfect victim. Only when I felt something on my shoulder did I turn around to see a man with his hand in my backpack.
Luckily I caught him in action before he got his hands on my purse, but it taught me to be aware of my surroundings, especially in countries where tourists can stick out like a sore thumb. Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter
AROUND 150 Ryanair passengers were left stranded at a European airport following massive queues.
The passengers at Toulouse-Blagnac Airport in France missed their Ryanair flight last week due to lengthy queues at border control caused by staff shortages.
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Around 150 Ryanair passengers were left stranded at a French airport last week due to border control queuesCredit: AFP or Licensors
The flight to London Stansted left without some of its passengers as queues at border control meant they couldn’t reach their gate in time for the flight.
One passenger told The Connexion that it was “pure chaos” adding that “there was no structure at the airport” and “people pushing at all times”.
The woman’s flight wasn’t the only one to be impacted either – in total four flights were boarding at the same with destinations including Marrakech in Morocco, Tunisia and two to London.
Reportedly, around 500 people were in the border control area including passengers with babies.
The woman also revealed that despite just managing to get onboard her flight, the pilot announced shortly after that 150 passengers had not made it.
On its website, the UK Civil Aviation Authority states: “Airports will try to do their best to ensure a smooth operation and provide passengers with a comfortable journey. However, sometimes problems do occur.
“If you miss a flight due to a long queue at security, even though you arrived at the airport on time, it is unlikely that an airline would pay compensation or consider itself obliged to offer you a free alternative flight.
“We are pleased to see that some airlines are helping their passengers find alternative flights voluntarily.
“We would recommend that you contact your travel agent or airline to help book you onto an alternative flight, but you may need to pay extra to do this.
“If you have taken out travel insurance, contact your insurance provider to see if your expenses are covered and make sure you keep receipts for these.”
A Ryanair spokesperson told Sun Travel: “Due to delays caused by border control staff shortages at Toulouse-Blagnac Airport on 30 May, a number of passengers booked to travel from Toulouse to London Stansted were not in the boarding gate area when boarding for their flight closed and missed their flight from Toulouse to London Stansted.
“All passengers that were at the boarding gate when this flight from Toulouse to London Stansted boarded were accommodated and travelled without incident.”
Sun Travel has contacted Toulouse-Blagnac Airport for comment.
ONE of the world’s most iconic mountain resorts is set to close its airport for months.
Attracting millions of ski enthusiasts and keen hikers every year, it’s a place loved by A-listers, with the likes of Goldie Hawn and Mariah Carey boasting luxury homes in the stunning area.
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Aspen is a popular ski resort visited by millions every yearCredit: Lana2011The town’s airport is being given a $575million revamp while it stops flightsCredit: John M. Chase
But those wanting to jet off to Aspen, Colorado, next year are set to have their plans hindered.
Located in the Rocky Mountains, the outdoor haven, frequented by the Kardashians, can ordinarily be reached via flights to Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE).
However, the travel hub has now confirmed that flights will stop and the airport will close its doors for seven months from next spring.
As of April 4, 2027, the airport will grind to a halt for a staggering 229 days.
The closure will allow for a major airport regeneration to take place, with runway reconstructions planned.
Neither commercial nor private aircrafts will be permitted to use the airport while the project is going on.
Flights will not resume until November 19, 2027, but the works are not expected to be completed fully until 2029.
The airport usually connects major US cities like LA, Dallas, Chicago, Atlanta and Denver to the ski hotspot.
The renovation project, which is predicted to cost a hefty $575million, will allow the airport’s decades-old terminal building to be modernised.
Aspen/Pitkin County Airport director Diane Jackson said: “Our team is committed to coordinating with federal partners, airlines, general aviation partners, and the broader community as we prepare for this important project and the future of the airport.
“This project is a long-term investment in the safety, reliability, and future of Aspen/Pitkin County Airport, and we will continue to engage with our community every step of the way,” her statement continued.
A nationwide strike has started across Portugal todayCredit: APAirports in Lisbon, Porto and Faro have been affected by flight cancellations (stock image)Credit: Alamy
The strikes follow a proposed labour legislation change, which they claim are an “assault on workers’ rights”.
Airlines have been forced to cancel flights already, with TAP Portugal warning earlier this week that 500 flights would be cancelled and only 79 flights would be running.
Nearly 100 flights have been cancelled to and from Lisbon Airport already.
This includes a number of UK arrivals and departures including:
7:20am Lisbon to London Heathrow with British Airways
10:05am London Heathrow to Lisbon with British Airways
11am Lisbon to London Heathrow with British Airways
2:30pm London Heathrow to Lisbon with British Airways
3:15pm Lisbon to London Heathrow with British Airways
4:25pm Lisbon to London Heathrow with British Airways
11pm London Heathrow to Lisbon with British Airways
EasyJet and Ryanair flights are yet to be affected, but more may be cancelled throughout the day.
Nearly 60 flights to and from Porto Airport have been cancelled, including Ryanair flights, although no UK routes have been affected yet.
Faro Airport is also seeing cancellations , affecting around 40 arrivals and departures.
These include:
6:50pm London Gatwick to Faro with British Aiways
7pm Leeds to Faro with Ryanair
7:35pm Faro to Leeds with Ryanair
7:40pm Faro to London Gatwick with British Airways
More than 200 flights have already been cancelledCredit: AlamyCancelled flights from the UK include Ryanair and British AirwaysCredit: Alamy
Along with cancellations, there are lots of delays as well.
easyJet warned passengers that passengers should expect “some disruption” throughout the day.
They told Sun Travel: “Due to a national strike in Portugal on 3 June, like all airlines operating to and from the country we can expect some disruption to our flying programme.
“We will be doing all we can to minimise the impact of the strike action and will contact customers directly with their options if their flights are affected.
“While this is outside of our control we are sorry for any inconvenience this strike action may cause.”
Other public transport services are also being affected in the country.
Lisbon Metro said no train services will run at all today, wile the Porto Metro will have “limited services”
The strike could also cause problems in the coming days due to a knock on effect.
STRIKES across Portugal are set to go ahead tomorrow causing widespread disruption across the country.
Rail workers, cabin crew and public transport staff are all staging a walkout.
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easyJet has said it is expected to have some flights impacted by the strikeCredit: AlamyPublic services like Lisbon Metro will be affected tooCredit: Alamy
At its airports in Portugal, strike action is predicted to affect hundreds of flights with 500 at risk of being cancelled and delayed.
Over half of these flights are operated by TAP Air Portugal, as well as other Portugália and SATA services.
On social media, TAP Air Portugal said it would still operate a minimum of 79, it is also rebooking travel options for affected passengers.
The airline Air Europa has cancelled all of its flights between Madrid and Lisbon and Porto.
The union added that easyJet and Ryanair flights are also expected to be impacted.
easyJet told Sun Travel: “Due to a national strike in Portugal on 3 June, like all airlines operating to and from the country we can expect some disruption to our flying programme.
“We will be doing all we can to minimise the impact of the strike action and will contact customers directly with their options if their flights are affected.
“While this is outside of our control we are sorry for any inconvenience this strike action may cause.”
Ryanair however told The Independent that it did not expect any disruption and would operate as normal.
Away from airports, staff working for FECTRANS are expected to walkout.
Around 500 flights could be cancelled due to strike action across Portugal tomorrowCredit: Alamy
This is expected to limit service on the Lisbon Metro and will disrupt those with travel plans across the city.
Union members include those working on the Porto Metro, so Porto is another city set to be majorly affected by the strike action.
Due to the sheer volume of staff strikes, it’s thought that the delays could impact travel on the following days, too.
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’re 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.
According to local media, this has also affected Brussels Charleroi Airport, with 30 flights cancelled so far.
This mainly means Ryanair passengers, who are the primary carrier at Belgium‘s second biggest airport.
Ryanair slammed the strike, which has affected 20,000 passengers.
The airline’s boss Michael O’Leary said: “While we respect the right to strike, it is unacceptable that airlines were given zero notice of today’s Belgian ATC strike.
“As a result, airlines were forced to cancel flights at short notice, unfairly impacting thousands of passengers travelling to/from Belgium – many of whom are now stranded at Charleroi and Zaventem Airports.”
But Wizz Air passengers are also being hit, with flights being forced to divert and land at other airports.
Ryanair has slammed the strikeCredit: EPA
Brussels Charleroi said in a statement: ” A new work stoppage will bring operations to a standstill starting at 2:15pm at Charleroi Airport.
“As a result, all flights scheduled to depart or arrive from 2:15 p.m. onward are canceled.
“Passengers with a flight scheduled after 2:15pm departing from or arriving at Charleroi Airport are advised to contact their airline for refunds or rebooking.
“Passengers with flights scheduled after 9:00pm are advised to check their flight status on their airline’s website.”
Similar restrictions are affecting other airports in Belgium too, including Antwerp, Liege, Ostend-Bruges.
The strikes are due to a disagreement over a new digital control tower being introduced.
A BRAND-NEW train service has been halted just a week after its launch due to a mechanical fault.
The new route promises low prices and faster, direct services to London.
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Lumo’s brand-new service from London to Stirling has suspended todayCredit: AlamyThe new, low-cost service launched just a week agoCredit: Alamy
Lumo services between London Euston and Stirling have been cancelled in both directions due to a mechanical fault on the service’s sole train.
The journey was set to depart from Stirling at 8:50am this morning, travelling on the West Coast Main Line to get to London Euston by 3pm.
Passengers have been encouraged to check Lumo’s website for updates, and will face no extra cost for using alternative train services.
In a post on X, Lumo said Stirling and Larbert passengers would receive a taxi or road transport service to Motherwell to join an Avanti West Coast service.
Greenfaulds and Whifflet passengers expected to travel by ScotRail to get there.
Passengers travelling from Carlisle, Preston, Crewe, Nuneaton and Milton Keynes were told to join either Avanti West Coast or London Northwestern services to get to Euston.
A spokesperson for Lumo said: “Since launch, the vast majority of our services have operated as planned, however, a few services have been cancelled with alternative travel offered to customers.
“We apologise for the inconvenience and are working closely with Alstom who maintain the trains to ensure minimal disruption to customer journeys.”
Only launched last week, the new route offers budget travel routes betwen London and Stirling, costing £29.90.
For some Scottish towns, this service became the first direct rail route to London.
The faulty train is said to be a refurbised Class 222 Meridian train, previously used by East Midlands Railway.
Lumo hopes to increase its schedule to four daily services, plus an additional journey between Euston and Preston, as early as late July using more new trains.
It is unknown what caused the train fault, but rail services on the London Euston to Stirling route are expected to resume on Tuesday.
MISBEHAVING Brits could be slapped with a permanent flight ban under new Labour rules.
Labour Ministers are currently looking at establishing a blacklist to stop abusive behaviour towards cabin crew and disruption to travel.
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The UK government is looking at introducing new rules that could ban unruly passengers from flyingCredit: Alamy
This includes considering how information about drunk and abusive passengers could be shared between airlines.
Currently, if you misbehave on a flight you can be banned by the airline you are travelling with – but other airlines would not know this.
If the new rules were to go ahead, it would mean that public officials could keep information about passengers, including a history of any bad behaviour during flights.
In an airport setting, public officials would likely include police, border force officers and immigration officers.
The official would then warn an airline if the passenger was trying to check in with them.
Then, the airline could decide whether or not they want the passenger travelling with them.
The new system would be compliant with data protection rules, so no new legislation would need to be created for the rules to be introduced.
Having said this, data protection rules don’t allow airlines to share information about travellers, hence the need for a public official.
It comes as a the number of drunken incident on flights have risen in recent years, including one earlier this month on an easyJet flightCredit: Alamy
It comes as the number of drunken and violent incidents on planes has risen in recent years.
Earlier this month, a drunk woman believed to be British lunged at another passenger, causing chaos on an easyJet flight.
A government source said: “Everyone should be able to enjoy a pint at the airport, but anti-social behaviour on flights is totally unacceptable.
“It threatens the safety of passengers and crew, and disrupts hard-earned holidays.
“There are already tough laws in place to deal with offences committed on flights, but we are exploring with industry how we can better address this issue, ensuring we crack down on people who persistently cause chaos.
“Everyone should be able to fly without fuss.”
Tim Alderslade, Chief Executive of industry body Airlines UK, said: “UK airlines have a zero-tolerance approach to disruptive behaviour.
“Additional measures for the most serious cases of disruption, including the creation of a national ban list, are an important next step in ensuring a tiny minority of passengers cannot disrupt air travel for the majority.
In a recent YouGov survey of 5,000 adults, 37 per cent said they supported the proposal for new rulesCredit: Alamy
“We welcome the government’s support for further action and will work closely with ministers on delivering the right solutions.”
According to LBC, Phil Ward, Chief Operations Officer of Jet2, also said the airline would support new rules of sharing passenger information between airlines.
He said: “The creation of a national database will mean that, as well as being banned from flying with us, disruptive passengers can also be banned from flying with other UK airlines.”
In a recent YouGov survey of 5,000 adults, 37 per cent said they supported the proposal for new rules, with 38 per cent saying they somewhat supported it.
Only 11 per cent opposed.
Being drunk on a flight is a criminal offence and can lead to a fine of up to £5,000 and two years in prison.
A meeting will be held later this month where industry leaders will discuss the plans.
The Sun’s Head of Travel shares her thoughts
LISA Minot, The Sun’s Head of Travel, shares her thoughts:
Plans to blacklist drunk and abusive passengers on a nationwide database can’t come soon enough.
Onboard incidents have skyrocketed in recent years and a full ban on those found guilty across all airlines would be the kind of punishment that would have real consequences.
At the moment, while one airline can ban a passenger for life, data protection means other airlines are not alerted.
Having seen the chaos a drunken passenger can wreak myself on a flight from Cape Verde back to the UK anything that will show disruptive passengers there are real consequences is a good move.
Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary has repeatedly called for a ban on passengers drinking in departure lounges but why should the vast, innocent majority pay for the sins of a tiny minority?
This proposal is a much more sensible way of ensuring planes are not turned into battlegrounds without punishing the law-abiding passengers.
HOLIDAYMAKERS are to get twice as many trains to one of Britain’s busiest airports after the country’s largest rail operator was taken into public ownership.
The Government has pledged to double the frequency of Gatwick Express services between London Victoria and Gatwick Airport from December, as Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) became the latest train company to be nationalised today.
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Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander hailed it as “a defining moment in our reform of the railway”, with GTR’s four brands – Southern, Thameslink, Great Northern and Gatwick Express – carrying one in six of all train journeys made across Britain.
As well as the boost for Gatwick passengers, more early morning services on Saturdays and Mondays will be introduced from this summer.
The Government also pledged to crack down on graffiti in Thameslink train toilets, upgrade signalling between Farringdon and Blackfriars to cut delays, and deploy 110 new travel safe officers to tackle anti-social behaviour across the network.
Ms Alexander said millions of passengers across the South East and East of England would now be “travelling on rail services back in public hands — run for the public good, not private profit.”
She added the nationalisation gave the Government “an opportunity to tackle the bread and butter issues people want, like driving down cancellations and improving the frequency of services to Gatwick Airport.”
GTR chief operating officer John Whitehurst said the railway “carries millions of people to work, to school, and to see friends and family every single day,” adding that public ownership “gives us the chance to go further to deliver the railway that millions of people across the South East deserve.”
GTR is the fifth operator to be nationalised under the current Government, joining c2c, Greater Anglia, South Western Railway and West Midlands Trains. LNER, Northern, Southeastern and TransPennine Express had already been brought into public hands before Labour came to power.
The nationalisation is part of a sweeping overhaul of Britain’s railways, with a new body called Great British Railways (GBR) set to bring responsibility for both tracks and trains under a single roof for the first time since privatisation in the mid-1990s.
Legislation to create GBR was included in the recent King’s Speech, and the first train carrying its branding — a Southern service — was unveiled in Brighton earlier this month.
Chiltern Railways is next in line to be nationalised on September 20, followed by Great Western Railways on December 13, with the full programme expected to be completed by the end of next year.
GTR’s takeover into public hands comes years after Southern became notorious for chronic delays and cancellations.
At its worst, the 7.29am Brighton to London Victoria service failed to arrive on time during any of its 240 runs throughout 2014.
The operator blamed high demand and congestion, though it was also hit by a bitter industrial dispute with drivers and conductors over staffing, including a row over who should operate train doors.
A UK train line will be closed for three days this weekend as the station undergoes major works.
Travellers are advised to plan their journeys in advance as there will be no trains running on the busy West Midlands line.
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A major UK train line between Birmingham and Lichfield will be closed this weekendCredit: AlamyPassengers are advised to plan their journeys in advance while the major works take placeCredit: Alamy
Between May 29 and May 31, there will be no trains running between Birmingham New Street and Lichfield Trent Valley Station.
Network Rail has announced that the closures will be in place to allow for the installation of a new viaduct.
The planned work will take place over the weekend and services are expected to return to normal on Monday, June 1.
For those travelling southbound on the Cross City line, services will be continuing as normal between Birmingham New Street and Redditch/Bromsgrove.
The “complex” installation work will also affect services between Birmingham New Street and Tame Bridge Parkway, to ensure all works are carried out safely.
Passengers affected by the disruption will be able to travel on rail replacement buses, running from Birmingham New Street to both Lichfield Trent Valley and Tame Bridge Parkway
For those travelling to Rugeley Trent Valley, the services will be diverted and journeys are expected to take longer than usual, so passengers are advised to allow extra time for possible delays.
The major works comprise of the installation of a 150-metre-long viaduct, located near the new Curzon Street Station, that will transport HS2 trains over an existing Victorian viaduct between Duddeston and New Street.
Director for On Network Works at Network Rail and HS2, Patrick Crawley, said: “We’re reminding passengers to plan ahead for a three-day closure on the Cross City line between Birmingham and Lichfield to enable the safe installation of a new HS2 viaduct over the existing railway.
“This is a significant milestone in the delivery of HS2 at Curzon Street, and while there will be some disruption, we’ve worked closely with partners to keep people moving and minimise the impact as much as possible.”
Customer experience director for West Midlands Railway, Jonny Wiseman, added: “We want to thank passengers for their patience while this major piece of engineering work is carried out and the northern section of the Cross City Line is closed.
“Rail replacement buses will be running during the closure, and passengers are encouraged to check their travel before setting out.”
PASSENGERS are facing travel chaos this bank holiday following a signalling issue impacting routes to Heathrow Airport.
There are major delays on the Elizabeth Line and Heathrow Express trains wreaking havoc for those trying to reach the airport today.
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A signalling failure in the London Paddington area has meant there’s a reduced service on the Elizabeth Line and Heathrow Express trainsCredit: AlamyThese delays are expected to last until the end of the dayCredit: Getty
Earlier this evening, customers travelling to Heathrow Airport have been hit with severe delays to their journey.
A signalling failure in the London Paddington area has meant there’s a reduced service on the Elizabeth Line and Heathrow Express trains.
Trains running between London Paddington and Heathrow Airport or Reading may be cancelled, delayed by up to 45 minutes or revised.
These delays are expected to last until the end of the day.
According to Heathrow Express’ website, there are delays in both directions with only two trains departing every hour.
Meanwhile, the Elizabeth Line has reported severe delays between Paddington and Heathrow Terminals while a signal fault in the Southall area is fixed.
The service is also severely reduced, with some stations currently not being served.
On the National Rail site, they advise those travelling from the east to change at Whitechapel for service to Heathrow Terminal 4.
At the moment, services for Heathrow Terminal 5 will terminate before reaching Heathrow, so passengers are advised to arrive at Heathrow and use the free terminal transfers available at the airport.
Transport for London have said that tickets are being accepted on London Underground.
But for those travelling to Heathrow, the Underground doesn’t offer much of a solution.
This bank holiday the Piccadilly Line is undergoing planned engineering works, with no service from Hyde Park Corner to Uxbridge or Northfields.
However, tickets are being accepted by Great Western Rail and local bus services in order to get passengers to Heathrow Airport.
A spokesperson for Great Western Rail said: “Network Rail are currently investigating a signalling issue affecting the relief lines just outside of Paddington.
“To help keep trains running, some services are being reduced – and we’re advising customers travelling to or from Paddington to check before they travel.”
TfL said: “The Elizabeth line services are currently impacted by signalling issues in the Hayes & Harlington area.
“There is a severely reduced service, with some stations not being served, though we are currently looking to increase services.
“There is alternative ticket acceptance with GWR and local bus services.”
The stations’ decades-old tracks and platforms will be given a revamp.
The closures will take place between Sunday, July 26, and Sunday, August 16, as well as on Sunday, May 31, and Sunday, June 7.
There will also be a full weekend closure from Saturday, August 22, to Sunday, August 23, – and again from Saturday, October 10, to Sunday, October 11.
The closures will allow a £20million revamp project to go aheadCredit: AlamyRepairs will be made to the Hungerford BridgeCredit: Alamy
On these dates, no trains will stop at Charing Cross or Waterloo East, although the Southeastern services will continue throughout the closures.
Trains that usually terminate at Charing Cross will be diverted to London Victoria, London Blackfriars, London Cannon Street or London Bridge. Tickets will be accepted on these alternative routes.
Meanwhile the London Underground service from Charing Cross will run as normal.
The closures will allow a £20million engineering project to be completed, with almost two kilometres of 36-year-old track set to be replaced.
Sections of Charing Cross’s platforms will undergo repairs along with updates to the drainage systems on the tracks.
Structural repairs to the Waterloo East to London Waterloo pedestrian link bridge and the Hungerford Bridge are also required.
Scott Brightwell, train services director at Southeastern Railway, said: “The £20 million investment we are delivering will see 1990s track and platforms upgraded to make journeys safer and more reliable, and Victorian era structures strengthened to remain fit for the future.
“By consolidating the work into 22‑day closure, supported by preparation and follow‑up weekends, we can complete the work more quickly and with less disruption overall than the alternative options of 60 weekend closures or four to five 9-day closures.”
Urging passengers to “plan ahead and check before they travel”, he added: “We have planned the closure for the summer, when passenger numbers are around 20 per cent lower and schools are closed, to help manage the impact on customers.”
