Where can I fly from?
Your departure location will depend on the holiday that you select, but in general, there are several options available for UK travellers. The main UK airports are owned and operated by the British Airport Authority (BAA). These include:
- London Heathrow
- Lndon Gatwick
- London Stansted
- Aberdeen
- Edinburgh
- Glasgow
- Southampton
Will I have to go through customs?
If your holiday will be taking you outside of the UK then a visit through customs will be part of the trip. All items and goods entering the UK from a foreign country must go through customs. Goods that are imported to or exported from the UK are the responsibility of HM Revenue and Customs Passport control.
Is flying safe?
When you understand how many organisations of people are working behind the scenes, it is easy to see why flying is one of the safest ways to travel.
Here are the organisations that you have to thank for safe arrival at your holiday destination:
- National Air Traffic Services (NATS): As the UK’s air traffic organisation, the NATS is responsible for air traffic control in British Airspace.
- Civil Aviation Authority (CAA): This organisation controls all flight paths and aircraft routes at UK airports. The CAA is also responsible for regulating airlines, airports, and the NATS.
- The International Air Transport Association (IATA): The IATA is the governing body responsible for regulating international air transport.
Are there new luggage restrictions?
Travellers departing from UK airports should be aware of the updated hand luggage restrictions. You can learn more from the Department of Transport at http://www.dft.gov.uk/transportforyou/airtravel/airportsecurity?
What are my rights as a passenger?
As an airline passenger you have several rights that must be met. Here are a few of the most important ones:
- The right to a refund. If your holiday is protected by the Air Travel Organiser’s Licensing then you have a right to be reimbursed should your tour operator go out of business before your trip.
- The right to compensation for overbooking. The legislation is not yet set, but it appears that passengers will now be compensated should the airline overbook their flight causing delays. Read more...
- The right to be heard. If you have a complaint about an airline the Air Transport Users Council (AUC) would like to hear about it.
