Lee Chi-yuen, a spokesperson for the Taipei-based Travel Quality Assurance Association, urged the public to consider purchasing travel insurance after the announcement that EVA Air pilots have voted to strike, with a possibility of it occurring during the Lunar New Year, providing only a 24-hour notice.
Lee said that standard contract liability insurance for group tours does not cover disruptions caused by airline strikes. In such events, travel agencies are obliged to provide accommodation and meals for stranded passengers, who can later seek reimbursement from the airline.
In a Taiwan News report, Lee referenced the previous China Airlines pilot strike as a precedent, where affected travellers received a maximum compensation of US$250 per person per day.
With the Lunar New Year period typically seeing elevated costs for ticket alterations and rebookings, Lee emphasised the importance of obtaining travel insurance. He advised tourists to acquire such insurance promptly and to verify the specific coverage in case of a strike.
Lee also called for travel agencies to have a uniform approach to handling pilot strike scenarios. He expressed hope that the Ministry of Transportation and Communications would offer guidance, ensuring that travel agencies are prepared for any disruptions.
Additionally, Lee noted that while airlines typically waive handling fees for ticket changes or cancellations during strikes, travellers might still face difficulties. The high demand for seats during the Lunar New Year could mean that alternative travel arrangements might not be possible, underscoring the potential impact of the strike on holiday plans.
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