Fliers were left stranded after U.S. strikes in Venezuela. Can travel insurance help?

Thousands of individuals found themselves stuck abroad when their flights home were canceled due to the temporary closure of U.S. airspace around Venezuela following the capture of former President Nicolás Maduro. Many travelers are facing significant challenges, including rebooking on flights with long delays and incurring additional expenses for accommodations. Industry experts are now advising affected individuals to seek refunds from airlines and file claims with their travel insurance providers if they have coverage.

On the day of the attack that led to the airspace closure, approximately 1,130 flights within, into, or out of the U.S. were canceled, with a large number originating from Caribbean islands such as Aruba, Puerto Rico, and St. Thomas. Flight service in the region has since resumed after the restrictions were lifted.

For those with existing travel insurance, there are limitations to what is covered. Policies typically exclude coverage for trip interruptions caused by acts of war, terrorism, or civil unrest. Therefore, travelers affected by the Venezuela flight restrictions may face challenges in receiving compensation. It is recommended to keep all receipts for expenses incurred during the disruption.

Travel insurance does provide coverage for situations within an airline’s control, such as flight cancellations due to mechanical issues. Policies can also protect against trip cancellations due to personal emergencies like illness or injury. Some providers offer add-ons for coverage in case of trip interruptions for “any reason,” but these must be purchased in advance.

The average cost of travel insurance is around $21 per day, with pricing based on trip costs and coverage options. In the event of a canceled flight, travelers are advised to file a claim with their airline for additional expenses like lodging and meals. Even without insurance, it is important to go through the claims process to potentially receive compensation.

Travel insurance providers can assist with rebooking flights and finding alternative accommodations for affected travelers. Beyond reimbursement for expenses, insurance also comes with assistance benefits to help with trip interruptions. It is essential to take advantage of these resources in times of travel disruptions.