29/10/2012

Hurricane Sandy Causes UK Travel Chaos

Hurricane Sandy continues to cause travel disruption, as flights to and from the UK and US are cancelled

All BA and Virgin flights to and from New York, Washington and Boston have been cancelled.

Baltimore and Philadelphia flights have also been cut.

It is thought the disruption could last for days if hurricane Sandy intensifies.

Passengers are being given the opportunity to rebook or get a refund.

Many US states have declared emergencies due to the 75mph winds.

Cancellations on the other side of the Atlantic have also been occurring. United Airlines has cancelled departures from Manchester and Birmingham.

Virgin Atlantic cancelled flights for tomorrow to JFK and Newark Airport in New York.

The pre-emptive action indicates the travel delays could last for longer than 24 hours.

A spokesman for Virgin Atlantic said: "We are continuously liaising with local authorities to assess the situation and minimise the disruption caused to passengers."

A statement from BA said: "We understand that customers may be disappointed, however, their safety is our highest priority.

"We are offering the option to re-book or receive a refund to those customers whose flights are cancelled.

"We have also received reports that public transport links to East Coast US airports may be disrupted, so advise customers to review their flight and local travel plans before leaving for the airport."

UK passengers travelling on flights to and from the US over the next few days are recommended to check the relevant airport and airline websites for up-to-date news.

Hurricane Sandy has killed 60 people in the Caribbean during the past week and is causing chaos for the two US presidential candidates just one week before elections.

(IT)

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