Ryanair passengers, may face flight disruptions this week, if strikes go ahead on August 22nd and 23rd of this month.

This is not the best time for families as most will be on their annual summer holiday.

So how will passengers be affected?

Should they reconsider their travel arrangements or cancel their bookings?

Will I be contacted in advance if my Ryanair flight is cancelled?

Ryanair will be in contact with customers to confirm flight cancellations once the strike has been confirmed.

However, I’d recommend keeping up to date with Ryanair’s website for news on delays or strikes to avoid disruption.

What are my rights if my flight gets cancelled?

Under EU regulation 261, airlines must offer passengers affected by cancellations a full refund or a rerouting on the next available flight or at a later time that suits the passenger. If you opt for a refund the airline’s responsibility to you ends. If you ask to be put on the next available flight then the airline must provide care and assistance until you can be accommodated on an alternative flight.

Will my meals and accommodation be covered?

If you’re abroad and trying to get back to Ireland or in Ireland and trying to get home. The airline are obliged to offer meals and refreshments. (non alcoholic)

If necessary it will have to cover the cost of hotel accommodation and transport between the hotel and the airport and you will have to be offered two free telephone calls and access to email.

What is the procedure to claim back travel expenses?

Passengers should send copies (it is very important the original documentation is never sent in case it goes missing) of all receipts to the airlines on which they booked flights. Submissions should also include booking references, passenger names, original and new flight details.

Where can I find out more?

For further information and updates please contact Ryanair.

If you’re looking to find out more about your rights as a passenger and read EU Regulations 261.