Flight operations in New Caledonia remain suspended following the closure of Nouméa-La Tontouta International Airport this Tuesday, leaving many Australians stranded on the island.
The pause in air travel, impacting both domestic and international routes, is expected to extend until at least today, May 17.
The disruption stems from a state of emergency declared by France due to deadly riots on the island over recent voting reform issues, which resulted in the deaths of four people, including one police officer.
Many Australians find themselves stranded, facing increasing accommodation and living expenses.
Natalie Ball, managing director of Compare Travel Insurance, stressed the importance of travel insurance in such unforeseen situations.
“Would-be holidaymakers should contact their airline or travel agent to check what options are available to alter their trip in the first instance. Travel providers often provide penalty-free options to amend travel arrangements in circumstances such as these,” she said. “Savvy travellers that took out comprehensive travel insurance will likely be reimbursed for their prepaid, unused, and non-refundable travel expenses. Additional meals and accommodation expenses incurred due to a necessary extended stay are also likely to be covered.”
She pointed out that securing travel insurance at the booking stage is crucial for coverage in such disruption events.
“For anyone that was planning to travel to New Caledonia this week that didn’t purchase travel insurance, unfortunately, won’t have cover for this event,” she said.
Additionally, the ongoing situation has halted cruise operations, with no ships docking in Nouméa for the week.
Compare Travel Insurance noted that travel insurance policies may cover claims for missed port calls, depending on the terms.
Compare Travel Insurance encourages Australians currently in New Caledonia to immediately reach out to their airlines and insurance providers to understand their options. It is advised that travellers follow safety guidelines, keep a low profile, adhere to local authority advisories, and retain all receipts to facilitate the claims process.
The comparison site further provided three critical tips for navigating unrest while abroad:
Another situation that left Australians stranded is Air Vanuatu’s sudden decision to enter voluntary liquidation following budget airline Bonza’s recent insolvency, according to 9News.
A spokesperson from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has advised affected Australians to reach out to their travel agents or travel insurance providers.
However, Ball warned that only a few travel insurance policies cover such insolvency events.
“In the event that an airline has entered voluntary administration, only a handful of travel insurers provide reimbursement for lost trip costs. This benefit usually only applies to comprehensive policies and claims would be assessed on an individual basis,” she said.
