Chartis extends cover for stranded pax

INSURANCE company Chartis South Africa has announced that as a result of the travel disruptions caused by the volcanic ash over Europe, it would extend travellers’ policies to cover extra travel time associated with flight delays. “Usually, policyholders have to pay for an extension should their trip be delayed,” said Thamsanqa Ndebele, regional travel manager for Travel Guard, the travel insurance arm of Chartis. “But considering that circumstances are beyond anyone’s control, we felt it was the right thing to do to allow for an extension of travel cover. Policyholders whose policies were purchased before April 13, when airspace was shut down due to the ash cloud, and who have been or will be affected by the disruption of flights due to the volcanic ash will be entitled to some redress. “We will either provide an automatic extension on the traveller’s policy, should they already be on their insured journey, or a change of travel dates if they are yet to travel. “If they have cancelled their trip altogether, and have not commenced their journey, they will be entitled to cancel their policy and a full refund of their premium,” said Ndebele. Travel delay resulting from the volcanic ash disruptions will be covered. Chartis will reimburse the insured, according to specific policy limits, for certain expenses incurred in respect of hotel accommodation, restaurant meals or refreshment if not provided or compensated by the airline or accommodation provider. Before contacting the insurance company, policyholders are, however, urged to: • First contact the airline to check that the flights has been cancelled and confirm alternative arrangements, • Contact their travel agent or airline and or accommodation providers to see what costs they will meet or amendment concession or refunds they are prepared to provide Jeanette Phillips (jeanettep@nowmedia.co.za)