Air Canada, Westjet will waive fees for travellers wary about Las Vegas
Canada’s two largest airlines have implemented flexible change and cancellation rules for up to a week for travellers who decide against flying to Las Vegas after Sunday’s mass shooting.
But one of Western Canada’s largest travel agencies says it has had only one request to bail on a trip from its 200 or so clients flying there this week.
Claire Newell, of Travel Best Bets, said people realize there are always risks when you attend large events at home or while travelling because they are likely targets for attacks.
“Wherever there are crowds I get a little nervous, but it’s not going to stop me from travelling,” she said.
Sometimes travellers get concerned about certain locations after events such as the shooting that killed at least 59 concertgoers and injured hundreds of others on Sunday night, but in the past the reluctance hasn’t lasted long, she said.
Travel providers have agreed within limits to waive usual cancellation or change fees.
Air Canada’s website said “because of the tragic events in Las Vegas, Air Canada has implemented a goodwill policy” for flights Oct. 2 to 9 into that city, allowing ticket holders to make changes without the usual rebooking penalty, and WestJet said it will relax its usual change rules and fees.
Newell said most travel package providers offer flexibility during catastrophic events.
She also said travellers concerned about risks should take precautions before flying, such as buying travel insurance that allows a change “for any reason.” They should also register a foreign trip with the federal Department of Foreign Affairs, at travel.gc.ca, or download a smartphone or tablet app that stores all pertinent contact information on your mobile, and lets loved ones know if the traveller is safe or if they’re stuck in an emergency while travelling.
Global Affairs Canada on Monday posted an advisory that stated: “If you are in Las Vegas, avoid the affected area and follow the instructions of local authorities.”
Travellers attending large-scale events should plan ahead of the trip to prepare for emergencies, said Genesis Security vice-president Ashley Meehan.
For instance, if they’re in a large venue, they should note the location of exits and avoid the main doors as they may become a primary target for attackers; look for something solid to hide behind; if in a room, barricade the door to buy themselves time; stick together in large groups to prevent themselves from becoming a more visible target; and not hesitate to react at the first sign of danger.