Navigating Travel Uncertainties: Cuba, BA Premium Economy, and Madrid Airport
In a world of geopolitical shifts and airline policies, travellers face numerous challenges. Simon Calder, our travel correspondent, responds to pressing queries on Cuban holidays, British Airways seat fees, and the complexities of Madrid's Aeropuerto Adolfo Suarez.
Cuban Holiday Plans Amid US Tensions
Q: We are scheduled for a holiday in Cuba this March. Given the current political climate, do you think our trip will proceed as planned? – 'Leopard Man'
A: Since President Trump began his second term, geopolitical uncertainty has escalated globally, affecting travel from Middle East tensions to disruptions in Venezuela. Cuba, once a mainstream Caribbean destination from 1995 to 2020, now sees fewer British visitors due to depopulation and economic hardships. However, I am optimistic your holiday will go ahead. Tourists like you are crucial for Cuba's people, who have faced decades of austerity.
Despite bellicose statements from Donald Trump, who recently labelled Cuba a "state sponsor of terrorism," I do not foresee American military action. The last such event was the Bay of Pigs invasion 65 years ago. Current US measures include tariffs on oil suppliers to Cuba and travel restrictions, making Cubans ineligible for US Esta permits. Economic warfare may persist, but if Cuba joins the Foreign Office's "no-go" list, package holiday bookers will receive full refunds. Independent travellers might face losses, though travel insurance could offer some protection.
British Airways Premium Economy Seat Fees
Q: We've booked premium economy tickets to Thailand with British Airways and are disappointed by an extra £100 per person charge for seat selection. Is this reasonable? – Kris L
A: Upon checking, a premium economy fare from London Gatwick to Bangkok costs £2,083 in British Airways' World Traveller Plus cabin, configured for 48 passengers. Seat selection fees range from £47 to £62 each way, depending on location, with window and forward seats priced higher. While it's frustrating after spending thousands, BA views this as an optional service for advance seat choice.
Concerns about sitting together without paying are often unfounded. BA typically seats passengers on the same booking together, even without extra fees. To maximise chances, check in online exactly 24 hours before departure. If issues arise, airport or onboard staff can assist. Additionally, note that air passenger duty (APD) is higher for premium classes: £224 for this route versus £94 in economy. For future trips, consider routing via Istanbul with a 24-hour stopover to reduce APD by around £200, covering hotel costs.
Missed Connections and Airline Policies
Q: I missed a connecting flight from Dublin to Donegal due to a delay on my Pisa to Dublin leg, booked separately with the same airline. Staff refused rebooking, citing separate bookings. Is this fair? – Carl Y
A: This situation, while harsh, aligns with airline rules. For full protection, book multi-flight journeys as a single transaction. On a ticketed trip like Manchester to New York via Dublin, airlines must reroute passengers and may offer compensation for delays over three hours. With separate bookings, no such obligations exist, even if the same airline operates both flights.
Sometimes, staff may assist as a goodwill gesture, but legally, you could be classed as a "no show" and charged for new tickets. Travel insurance might cover additional fares, but otherwise, consider switching airlines in the future to avoid similar issues.
Madrid's Aeropuerto Adolfo Suarez: A Critical Review
Q: You rated Madrid's airport as "awful," but I find it pleasant. Could you elaborate? – Rob F
A: I'm glad your experiences are positive, but mine have been less so. Madrid airport (coded MAD) combines several drawbacks uncommon in other European hubs. Access is problematic: the Metro to central Madrid requires multiple changes, unlike Heathrow or Orly. Inter-terminal connections are tricky, with Terminals 1, 2, and 3 separate from Terminals 4 and 4S, linked by irregular shuttles over distances up to 3km.
Signposting is haphazard, akin to Munich airport, causing stress for tight connections. Upon landing, taxi times to terminals are among Europe's longest, averaging 20 minutes and sometimes reaching 30 minutes, comparable to Amsterdam Schiphol. On a positive note, Madrid offers numerous Latin American destinations and features book exchange points, a non-commercial touch shared with other Spanish airports.
