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As global media outlets have let the Icelandic volcano drop out of sight, the turmoil from the 6-day no-fly ban is still being felt right around the world, as stranded passengers find themselves left to their own devices in a living hell.
13,000 travellers are waiting to get back to the U.K. from the U.S., while 10,000 are stranded in Egypt, and a further 2,500 are in Thailand. There are 2,000 in Malaysia and another 7,500 are scattered worldwide, according to the estimates. Many have been told by the airlines to claim their expenses back once they have returned home and have been refused airline vouchers.
It has been claimed that some planes are returning to the United Kingdom only half full, as airlines hike up the price of seats. British Airways spokesman said the inflated fares were a ‘technical’
British Airways claims that there may be occasions when the passengers do not turn up for flights, or cancel their bookings at short notice.
The European Union Transport Commissioner, Sliim Kalas, announced a pledge of state aid to airlines affected by the total flying ban. However, it will be individual governments and their taxpayers who will have to pick up the costs.
While the airlines may receive funds from the 2 billion pound compensation package, the airlines are angry that under the EU rules they are bound to pay the accommodation tab for stranded passengers.
Many stranded travellers are facing real hardship as this all come hard on the heels of the economic downturn. One traveller stuck with his family in Disney Land says, "We are barely able to survive. Having borrowed heavily from my family and friends, stuck here not able to work, this extended family holiday could force me into bankruptcy".
About Airline Passengers Still Stranded
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