Unfortunately Vicky Pattison’s experience of not being able to fly due to her damaged passport is a fairly common occurrence, as airlines have a duty to be vigilant when checking travel documentation.
The TV star was turned away from an Easyjet flight at the weekend because her dog chewed up her document.
Airlines are also greatly affected by the severe financial penalties imposed if they allow a passenger to travel with incorrect or invalid travel documentation.
And for this reason, you will often find that an airline takes an overly cautious approach, so it is important to understand your rights in these situations.
The UK Government defines a “damaged passport” as one that is not in a condition to be accepted as proof of identity.
TV star Vicky Pattison took to social media after easyJet refused to let her fly because her passport was damaged.
If, like Vicky, you discover that your passport has been lost, stolen or damaged when you arrive at the airport… there’s not much you can do if you’re at a UK airport for a one-way trip, says Dean.
It lists examples such as the passport details being indecipherable, the laminate lifting enough to allow the possibility of replacing the photo, discoloration of the personal data page, chemical or ink spills on any page, missing or separated pages, the chip or antenna. visible through the flyleaf on the back cover of the new style e-passport and a damaged chip.
HM Passport Office specifically states that normal wear and tear is to be expected and should not be counted as ‘damage’. I have heard many stories where passengers have been denied boarding due to a damaged passport, but upon further investigation it turned out that the damage was not enough to invalidate it.
Therefore, it is always worth asking the airline why your damaged passport cannot be used as proof of your identity, especially if you think it does not fall under one of the issues listed above.
However, I must say that while your passport may appear to be in reasonable condition, the real test is, of course, whether the passport scanning technician at the airport can read it.
If, despite your best efforts, you are denied boarding, you should consider making a claim for compensation through one of the two approved alternative dispute resolution systems (CEDR or AviationADR) or, if it is a package of holidays, through ABTA.
If, like Vicky, you discover that your passport has been lost, stolen or damaged when you arrive at the airport, apart from arguing that a damaged passport is still valid, there is not much you can do if you find yourself at a UK airport. for a one-way trip. . Her only option in these circumstances is to abandon her travel plans and apply for a new passport.
However, if you find yourself in this situation abroad during your return trip, you can apply for an ‘Emergency Travel Document’ by completing an application on the official government website: https://www.apply-emergency-travel -document. service.gov.uk/ or by making an appointment at your local British embassy.