Snow Chaos in Europe Hits Travellers

Thousands of travellers around the world are facing uncertainty over where they will be for Christmas, with snow causing backlogs at airports around the world as airports in the UK and other parts of Europe are forced to close.

And, unlike with the Icelandic volcanic ash disruption earlier this year, where some travellers could at least opt for alternative transportation, road and rail traffic is also being severely impacted, and the forecast for the coming week does not offer a warmer picture for travellers.

For those that have not yet commenced their journey, some airline's are offering refunds. or changes to tickets free of charge.

For those that are trying to end their vacation or business trip, it is still worth checking with your airline to see whether you can change your ticket, or dates of travel if you are so inclined.

Passengers are advised to check with their airline about the latest status of flights, ensure that the airline has all your contact numbers and preferably a local mobile number so that they do not have to call overseas.

Hong Kong-based Cathay Pacific is one airline that has been very proactive. Understanding that communication can be difficult at such times, a special email address has been set up on top of its regular passenger communications channels to collect student (and minor) passenger's phone contact details. The email address is: uk_student@cathaypacific.com. A separate email communication channel has also been set up for stranded Hong Kong residents who are non-UK citizens. The email address is: uk_irgs@cathaypacific.com. Both e-mail addresses are now operational. Cathay has also set up a special hotline for concerned parents of unaccompanied minors and young students from London to Hong Kong, so they can provide the airline with the passenger flight and contact details. The hotline number +852 - 2747-8999 and is open from 6 pm until 11 pm HK time. Cathay is also advising passengers to input their contact details in the Manage My Booking function on its website to ensure they get the latest flight information via SMS or email.

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