The closure of Europe’s busiest airport had caused major disruption that travel experts believe could last for days.
Rory Boland of Which? Travel, the consumer group, said affected passengers will have the choice of being rerouted on another flight or accepting a refund.
He added that customers who accept a refund would have to arrange any further flights as airlines have no “further duty of care”.
Passengers who opt to be rerouted have the right to reclaim “reasonable” additional costs, such as overnight hotel accommodation if no alternative flights are available, and onward travel costs if they are flown to a different airport.
But airlines will expect claimants to provide receipts. In previous incidents, some airlines have encouraged passengers to first try and claim via their travel insurance.
Holidaymakers who have booked package holidays have greater protections. “If your flight is part of a package holiday, you will have the highest level of protections,” said a spokesperson from Abta. “Your travel company will be in touch regarding your holiday.”
