11th March 2010 - Transport industry strikes, Italy 12th March

Transport industry strikes throughout Italy 12th March. Expect moderate transport disruptions and localised protests.

This alert affects Italy.

This alert is scheduled to expire 12th March 2010 23:59 GMT.

Incident: Public and private sector transport industry strikes

Location: Nationwide

Time Frame: Intermittently throughout 12 March

Impact: Moderate air, land and sea transport disruptions

Summary
Italian unions representing transport sector workers have called for a series of strikes 12th March to protest taxes and social benefits. Most strikes will affect different transport services at various times throughout the day. Each strike is expected to last approximately four hours.

All air traffic personnel nationwide - including airline pilots, ground crews and cabin crews - will stop working from 1000-1400. In addition, all airport staff at Florence (FLR) and Bologna (BLO) airports will be on strike 1000-1400 and 1200-1600 respectively. Expect moderate to significant delays on domestic routes; long-haul flights will only be very marginally affected.

Trenitalia rail workers will stop working from 1400-1800. A reduced, alternative service schedule will be in place for that time frame. Disruptions will be moderate at worst. Local rail and mass transit workers will also strike, with strike times to be determined locally. Expect rolling service outages.

All ferry personnel and highway toll staff nationwide will strike from 1200-1400; this strike may exceed the four hour limit and/or the strike time may shift at short notice. Some car rental agencies could be closed at short notice.

It is unlikely that the participation rate in the strikes will surpass 50 percent; however, disruptions are likely nationwide.

Advice
Allow additional time to reach destinations and for check-in at airports.

10th March 2010 - General Strike 11th March - Greece

This alert is scheduled to expire 11th Mar 2010 23:59hrs.

Incident: General strike and protests

Date: 11th March

Location: Nationwide, particularly Athens

Impact: Business closures, severe transport disruptions, localised riots possible

Summary
Labour unions and civic groups have called for a day of mass demonstrations and a general strike 11th March to protest the government’s planned austerity measures. Unions representing almost all industry and service branches will take part; the participation rate will likely be high.

Expect severe transport delays and public service disruptions, including the unavailability of medical care except for emergency services. Most flights to and from Greece, as well as domestic services, will likely be cancelled. Air traffic controllers will stop working at 2300hrs 10th March. Trains, ferries and mass transit will probably come to a near standstill across the country. The Athens metro will be open from only 1000-1600hrs. Most public offices and many businesses will remain closed 11th March.

In Athens, tens of thousands of people will likely participate in the protests. Major rallies will commence at 0900hrs in front of the parliament building and at 1100hrs in the Mars Park (Pedion Areos). In addition, the Communist Worker Groups (PAME) will rally in Omonia Square, probably in the morning. Another rally will take place at 1800hrs in front of the Athens police headquarters.

Through March and beyond, additional protests and unrest are likely. Spontaneous strikes are likely to include customs employees, air traffic controllers and public administration employees. There is a high likelihood of increasing fuel shortages and business closures. Recent polls, however, suggest that a majority of Greeks would support austerity measures under certain circumstances, leaving the long-term prospects for a sustained protest campaign unclear.

Advice
Consider deferring nonessential travel to Greece 11th March. Avoid all demonstrations and large crowds. Prepare for at least 24 hours of commercial, transport and public service unavailability.

8th March 2010 - UK Border and Customs Service Strike, 8th to 10th March

UK Border and Customs personnel are staging a 48-hour strike from 8th to 10th March. Expect moderate border clearance delays.

This alert affects the United Kingdom.

Event: Border Agency strike

Location: Nationwide at sea- and airports

Time Frame: 0700hrs 8th March to 0700hrs 10th March

Impact: Moderate border and customs clearance delays

Overview
UK Border Agency personnel organised in the British Public and Commercial Services Union are holding a 48-hour strike from 8th to10th March. Striking employees include customs officials, airport security and immigration service workers. The Border Agency has announced that it will hire private security to replace striking workers.

The effects of the labour action will mainly be felt at international airports in the UK. There will likely be shortages among customs and immigration officials, delaying entry into the UK, particularly for non-UK citizens. The strike will also have moderate delays on commercial customs services.

In addition to the Border Agency personnel, thousands of public servants across the UK will go on strike during the same time frame. The labour action could lead to localised service unavailability and small demonstrations, but the impact will likely remain marginal.

Advice
Expect delays at airport and seaport border clearance on 8th and 9th March.

5th March 2010 - British Airways Hand Baggage Policy

From 15th March, British Airways is introducing clearer hand baggage guidelines to ensure that customers choosing to take two items of baggage onboard can do so comfortably and safely.

The dimensions for your second piece of baggage should not exceed 45cm x 36cm x 20cm. This will ensure that your bag, which should be a laptop carry case, briefcase or personal handbag, can be accommodated under the seat in front.

If your second piece of hand baggage exceeds these dimensions, you will be asked to check one of your items of hand baggage into the aircraft hold and you may be subject to an excess baggage fee.

The dimensions of your first piece of hand baggage are not affected by this new guideline, and remain at a maximum of 56cm x 45cm x 25cm, including the handle, pockets and wheels.

Due to current restrictions, you can only take one piece of hand baggage onboard flights to the United States when travelling in World Traveller or World Traveller Plus. Customers travelling in First and Club World are permitted two pieces of hand baggage as standard. If you are an Executive Club Gold or Silver member travelling in any cabin you are now permitted two pieces of baggage.

4th March 2010 - London Passport Office closure

The London Passport Office has announced that it will be closed on Monday 8th and Tuesday 9th March owing to industrial action. Further appointments cannot be made until after this time.

4th March 2010 - JFK International Airport delays

The planned closure of the longest runway at New York’s JFK International Airport started on Monday morning, 1st March. The resurfacing work is expected to last for four months and will exacerbate existing delays, particularly at peak hours, from about 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. ET and between 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. ET. According to the FAA some arriving flights were delayed about an hour and 45 minutes at mid-day on Monday and those delays have a ripple effect throughout the nation’s aviation system.

3rd March 2010 - Strike in Portugal - 4th March

Public service employees in Portugal to strike March 4. Expect transport disruptions and protests. This alert began is scheduled to expire 4th Mar 2010 23:59 GMT.

Overview
The General Confederation of Portuguese Workers (CGTP) has announced a general strike for 4th March. Private-sector union UGT supports the strike, which is a protest against pending public austerity measures, but UGT participation will likely be limited. The strike will probably cause severe disruptions in public transportation networks, particularly in Lisbon and Porto. In addition, schools, some banks, public administration offices and medical facilities (excluding emergency services) will be closed. Air travel disruptions are unlikely. Spontaneous demonstrations of up to a few thousand people could occur in Lisbon, but will likely remain peaceful.

Advice
Arrange alternative transportation in Portugal 4th March. Expect closures of all public offices. Avoid all protests.

2nd March 2010 - Air Berlin Strike - Germany

From the 2nd March 15:55 and scheduled to expire 9th March 23:59

Incident: Air Berlin (AB) pilot warning strikes
Location: Network-wide, particularly Germany
Time Frame: First, possibly second week of March
Impact: Moderate air travel disruptions in Germany, dozens of flight cancellations

Forecast
Pilots for German airline Air Berlin (AB) have announced their intention to hold a three-hour warning strike in early March, while refusing to disclose a precise time frame for the labour action. The strike also applies to pilots for subsidiaries LTU (LT) and Tuifly (X3). The pilot union is protesting recently stalled negotiations over a new labour contract.

Flight cancellations are likely, mostly affecting German and, to a lesser extent, European routes. Long-haul flights, however, will only be marginally interrupted; no strikes are planned by pilots on routes to Germany. Codeshare flights operated by other airlines will also not be affected. If negotiations between the pilots' union and management do not make progress soon, additional strikes in March are likely.

Advice
Contact Air Berlin to determine your flight status, allow additional time to reach destinations when flying on one of the affected airlines.

2nd March 2010 - Pakistan Visas

With immediate effect the Pakistan Embassy processing time for visas is now at least 7 working days

2nd March 2010 - Ivory Coast Visas

With immediate effect the Ivory Coast Embassy have announced that, visa applications now need to be made in person at the Embassy, please contact the ATPI visa department for full details

2nd March 2010 - Kazakhstan Embassy

The Kazakhstan Embassy have announced that they will be closed on Friday 5th and Monday 8th March 2010.

2nd March 2010 - Russian Embassy

The Russian Embassy have announced a closure on Monday 8th March 2010

25th February 2010 - Official Travel Advice: U.K. advises against all but essential travel to parts of Bangladesh

ATPI has received reports that the Foreign & Commonwealth Office currently advises against all but essential travel to areas of Bangladesh.

In light of recent violence it advises against all travel to the Chittagong Hill Tracts (this does not include the city of Chittagong).

There is a general threat from terrorism. Attacks cannot be ruled out and could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

Please see the detailed guidance in the Local Travel - Chittagong Hill Tracts section of this Travel Advice using the following link: http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travel-and-living-abroad/travel-advice-by-country/asia-oceania/bangladesh

25th February 2010 - U.S: Winter storm hits northeast; more snow expected

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - A powerful winter storm dumped a foot or more of snow in the Northeast on Wednesday, knocking out power to thousands and stalling air traffic from Boston to Philadelphia, all ahead of a second system packing strong winds that could blanket the area with another foot of snow.

The storm cut a swath from eastern Pennsylvania into northern New England, slamming typically snowy regions that had been spared the paralysing storms that hit cities farther south earlier this winter. About 150,000 properties lost power Wednesday. Another storm forecast to hit today is expected with winds of up to 50 mph, which could cause more power outages, and a foot or more of snow in some areas by Friday. Meteorologists said some areas of New York's Adirondack and Catskill mountains and Vermont's Green Mountains could get as much as 2 feet by the weekend.

Philadelphia, which has already had a record 70.3 inches of snow and is still digging out from earlier back-to-back storms, could see as much as a foot of snow.

The northern edge of Wednesday's storm reached into the Massachusetts' Berkshires, Vermont and New Hampshire, with more than a foot of snow in some areas and prompting flooding concerns in Maine.

The hardest hit area Wednesday was Albany, N.Y., where some outlying areas had about 2 feet of snow by afternoon. The snow was so thick and heavy that even pickup trucks got stuck trying to clear it.

In New York City, Mayor Michael Bloomberg said the city was making sure building owners were aware of the predicted high winds and were taking steps to tie down anything that could come loose.

In Pennsylvania, State Transportation Secretary Allen Biehler is urging motorists to avoid unnecessary travel in a storm forecast to bring snow and gusty winds.

The system expected to create the storm that will travel up the Atlantic Coast was causing problems in the South on Wednesday. The weather service issued a winter storm warning through Friday morning for mountainous areas of western North Carolina, where forecasters said up to 10 inches was possible by Thursday evening.

Wednesday's Northeast storm ended a long stretch without a major snowfall in eastern New York and northern New England. The region had avoided much of the severe weather that hit the mid-Atlantic in recent weeks.

New York's power outages stood at 117,000 Wednesday afternoon, down from 135,000 earlier in the day. Most are in the Hudson Valley. Another 32,000 were reported in Vermont and western Massachusetts.

25th February 2010 - China: Thick fog disrupts flights in southeast

Several highways in Shanghai were closed after visibility was reduced to less than 200 meters. Maritime traffic was suspended in the city's harbour.

At least nine flights were delayed or cancelled because of the heavy fog at Guilin Airport in South China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Around 900 passengers were left stranded yesterday.

Xiamen News reported reoccurring fog also disrupted some flights at Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport in Fujian Province on the southeast coast of China.

Five highway entrances in Haicang, Xinglin, Jimei, Tong'an and Xiang'an were temporarily closed because of the fog.

Ferry traffic was halted as visibility dropped to less than 50 meters at Xiamen Port.

The fog was forecast to continue in Xiamen for the next two days.

25th February 2010 - Japan: Fog disrupts flights at Tokyo's Haneda Airport

TOKYO (AP) - An official says over 100 flights have been grounded due to dense fog over Japan's main domestic airport.

Fumi Oka, an official at Tokyo's Haneda Airport, said Thursday that 103 domestic flights were cancelled. At least 34 flights were delayed due to the fog over Haneda. The weather trouble affected more than 17,000 passengers.

An official at Tokyo's Narita International Airport, Japan's main international airport, said all flights are operating on schedule.

24th February 2010 - Nigerian Embassy

The Nigerian Embassy has announced it will be closed on Friday 26th February and will re-open on Monday 1st March 2010.

24th February 2010 - Algerian Embassy

The Algerian Embassy has announced it will be closed on Friday 26th February and will re-open Tuesday 2nd March 2010.

23rd February 2010 - Flights Cancelled As Snowstorm Heads For Dallas, Texas

Dallas, Texas dealt with its second winter snowstorm in as many weeks as scores of flights were cancelled and road crews used sand to prep for possible icy conditions. The National Weather Service said San Angelo, Midland, Odessa and Lubbock had received snow today as the storm tracked toward the Waco and Dallas-Fort Worth areas.

American Airlines spokesman Tim Wagner says more than 100 flights were cancelled today at its main hub, Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. Wagner says the count included 33 American flights and 70 American Eagle flights. Dallas Fort Worth was under a winter weather advisory until late Tuesday, with about an inch of snow expected. Further south, snowfalls of 2-4 inches were forecast.

National Weather Service says the Dallas area last month set a record, with 12.5 inches of snow for the 24-hour period ending 12th February.

Airline disruptions
Those planning to travel by air to or from this destination should check with their airline or travel agent immediately to reconfirm travel arrangements. If your flight has been cancelled, request the next available flight.

23rd February 2010 - Lufthansa Strike Ends

This alert affects Germany.

Updated Information
Pilots for German flag carrier airline Lufthansa (LH) suspended their strike after one day, 22nd February. The union and Lufthansa management reached a court settlement and will resume talks. Some lingering flight delays are likely on 23rd February due to the reorganisation of the strike schedule. Long-haul connections are unlikely to be affected. Pilots for Lufthansa Cargo and Germanwings (4U) ended their strike, too.

The pilots were striking over more say in company rules that discriminate against pilots from partner airlines. In the settlement, Lufthansa pilots promised not to strike at least until the 8th March. Cabin crew unions, however, stated 22nd February they would consider a strike soon. The one-day strike severely affected Lufthansa flight services throughout the airline's network and grounded hundreds of flights, impacting approximately half of all connections.

22nd February 2010 - Eurostar Travel Update

Due to an accident between two Belgian commuter trains on Monday 15th February and the continued presence of the investigation team on site, services will remain disrupted between the UK and Brussels until Tuesday 2nd March at the earliest.

Eurostar understand that your journeys are important which is why they have arranged a frequent coach shuttle service between Lille and Brussels. From 22nd February to 26th February they will operate a limited direct train service on a diversionary route to Brussels in addition to the coach shuttle service already in place.

You are advised to check in normally at the stations. Nevertheless, if you would like to cancel or postpone your journey ATPI will provide a refund.

Eurostar Paris, Disneyland Paris and Ski services are running normally.

22nd February 2010 - Air Traffic Controllers Strike - France

This alert affects FrancAir Traffic Controllers Strike 23rd - 27th February.

Event: Air traffic controllers strike
Location: Nationwide
Time Frame: 23rd - 27th February
Impact: Moderate to severe flight cancellations and delays

Overview
Four labour unions representing air traffic controllers and other aviation workers have called for a strike from early 23rd February through to 27th February. As a result, hundreds of flights to and from airports across France will be delayed and/or cancelled. International flights will most likely be less affected but significant delays are possible. The unions are protesting pending changes to their labour contracts under the Single European Sky initiative.

22nd February 2010 - Algerian Visa Applications

The Algerian Embassy has confirmed that anybody with an Israeli stamp in their passport will not be issued a visa. It is recommended to renew the passport if applying for an Algerian visa if holding an Israeli stamp.

19th February 2010 - Russian Embassy Closure, 23rd February

ATPI has been informed that The Embassy of the Russian Federation will be closed for Army Day on the 23rd February 2010.

19th February 2010 - Lufthansa Strike, 22nd - 25th February

Lufthansa (LH) pilots to strike 22nd – 25th February. Expect hundreds of flight cancellations network-wide. Confirm flights.

This alert began 19th February 2010 and is scheduled to expire 25th February 2010.

Incident: Lufthansa (LH) pilot strike
Location: Network-wide, particularly Germany
Time Frame: 22nd – 25th February
Impact: Severe air travel disruptions in Germany, hundreds of flight cancellations, train ticket unavailability

Forecast
Pilots for German flag carrier airline Lufthansa (LH) will go on strike 22nd – 25th February. The labour action also applies to Lufthansa Cargo and Germanwings (4U) pilots. The pilots are demanding more say in company rules that discriminate against pilots from partner airlines. The strike will severely impact LH's flight service throughout the airline's network and ground virtually all domestic flights. Codeshare flights operated by other airlines, however, will not be affected. Lufthansa management will seek a court decision on the strike; the verdict will take place late 22nd February at the earliest.

Lufthansa will rebook and/or reimburse passengers with tickets for the strike period. Passengers on long-haul flights will be rebooked on other airlines; for those passengers, the number of cancellations will be moderate but delays due to altered itineraries are likely. Passengers who cannot be rebooked will be allowed to cancel their flights without cost. For domestic flight passengers, all airline tickets for the strike period are valid as tickets for German railway operator Deutsche Bahn.

LH cooperation partner Deutsche Bahn has currently suspended almost half of its long-distance trains for mandatory technical inspections. The train provider will probably not have sufficient capacity on many domestic routes to accommodate stranded LH passengers

19th February 2010 - Finnish Transport Strike, 21st February

Transport strike in Finland could disrupt some flights at Helsinki-Vantaa airport Helsingin Sanomat reported bus drivers who are members of the Finnish Transport Workers Union are threatening to strike from Sunday evening.

Services run by Helsingin Bussiliikenne reportedly will continue to operate in Helsinki. Routes operated by other bus companies in the city are expected to be cancelled because of the strike. A spokesperson for Helsinki Region Transport said several areas could be left without public transport. The strike will not affect local trains, trams, and the Metro.

Other cities and towns in Finland could be severely affected as bus companies sometimes provide the only transportation service.

The threatened strike by the Finnish Transport Workers Union could also affect fuel supplies at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport.

A spokesperson for Finnair said no problems were expected and that planes would be fuelled as per the airlines' normal schedule.

A source at Blue 1, a regional airline, said the strike would cause delays, and there could also be cancellations if the strike continues for a couple of days.

19th February 2010 - ScotRail Strike, 20th February

ScotRail says upcoming strikes will not affect service.

Rail bosses have claimed they will be able to operate at least "nine out of ten" trains when some staff strike in Scotland on Saturday.

Those planning to travel in this region should check with the railway immediately to reconfirm travel arrangements. If your train has been cancelled, request a reservation on the next available train. Traffic on roadways near the train station may be considerably more congested than normal. Stations are likely to become very crowded, lines will be long and tempers among other passengers may be short. Allow a good measure of extra time to get to the station and check in.

18th February 2010 - Eurostar Update

Due to an accident between two Belgian commuter trains on Monday 15th February, all services are suspended between the UK and Brussels until Sunday 21st February inclusive. The emergency services and the investigation team are still on the site of the accident and are expected to remain so for the coming days. As a result no train services including Eurostar are able to run in the immediate area of the accident.

A reduced timetable between UK stations and Lille is in operation. Therefore, travellers between the UK and Brussels are strongly advised to postpone or cancel their journey.

Eurostar's Paris services are running normally.

18th February 2010 - Rail Strike, Italy

Trenitalia personnel are to stage a 24-hour strike in Italy, starting at 2100 hours today, 18th February. Rail service delays and cancellations are to be expected.

This alert affects Italy.

Incident: Trenitalia personnel strike
Location: Nationwide
Time Frame: 2100 hours 18th February - 2100 hours 19th February
Impact: Service delays and cancellations

Summary
Trenitalia railway personnel have called for a 24-hour national strike. Approximately 80 percent of medium- and long-distance trains will likely operate despite the strike. Commuter services, however, could face moderate disruptions.

The Leonardo Express, which connects Rome's Termini station with Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO), will remain operational during the action.

Advice
Expect altered schedules, delays and cancellations on Trenitalia connections. Consider using alternate means of transport.

18th February 2010 - easyJet Strike, Schoenefeld Airport, Berlin

Cabin staff and crew for low cost carrier easyJet went on strike at Berlin's Schoenefeld airport earlier today, 18th February, forcing the cancellation of at least seven flights.

The industrial action by 300 workers was due to end at 1030 hours (0930 GMT) but delays and cancellations may continue as a follow-on from the strike action.

16th February 2010 - Eurostar & Brussels Update

Due to an accident between two Belgian commuter trains, services in and out of Brussels are completely suspended and will remain so for Tuesday 16th February.

Eurostar therefore advise that if you do not need to travel to Brussels on Tuesday 16th February that you defer or cancel your trip. The Paris services are not affected. Lille services are running with delays.

16th February 2010 - Airline Workers Strike, Italy

Incident: Airline personnel strike

Location: Nationwide

Time Frame: Intermittently throughout 16th February

Impact: Flight cancellations and delays, mostly affecting domestic and short-haul flights

Summary
Italian pilots and other personnel from Alitalia (AZ), Meridiana (IG) and Air One (CT) airlines plan to hold strikes on the 16th February to protest employment conditions and wages. Air traffic controllers withdrew a previous strike announcement. Alitalia and Eurofly pilots and cabin personnel will be on strike 1200hrs -1600hrs while some Alitalia ground personnel will stop working 1000hrs -1800hrs. Meridiana pilots will be on strike all day on the 16th February. Expect flight cancellations and moderate delays throughout the country. Cancellations will mostly affect domestic and short-haul international flights; transcontinental flights are most likely not affected.

ATPI, are currently in the process of contacting all passengers that maybe affected.

Advice
Contact your airline to determine flight status. Allow additional time to reach destinations and for check-in at the airport.

16th February 2010 - Visa Restrictions, Libya

This alert began 16th February 2010 and is scheduled to expire 23rd February 2010

Incident: Entry visa restrictions
Start Date: 15th February
Impact: Denial of entry

Summary
Late on the 15th February Libya stopped issuing entry visas to citizens of 25 European countries, which are members of Schengen Area, without a warning.

Citizens of the UK, Ireland, Romania, Bulgaria and Cyprus will not be affected by the visa restrictions. On the 14th February a Libyan daily reported that the country would introduce severe measures as a political response to the Swiss government's decision to create a visa blacklist that included Libyan leader Col. Muammar Abu Minyar Al-Qadhafi and his immediate family.

The Libyan government has not officially confirmed or explained the decision, but reports indicated that as of the evening of 15th February the restriction was already in effect at Tripoli International Airport (TIP).

Advice
If travelling to Libya contact your Foreign Ministry for advice.

15th February 2010 - Eurostar Brussels Service Suspended

Due to an incident on the Belgian domestic line, services in and out of Brussels are completely suspended until further notice. It is possible that services may remain suspended all day.

Eurostar Paris services are not affected by the above, however there is a speed restriction between Lille and Calais due to adverse weather conditions.

10th February 2010 - Severe Winter Weather - Belgium

This alert affects Belgium.

This alert began 10th February 2010 and is scheduled to expire 11th February 2010.

Summary
Heavy snowfall paralysed much of Belgium early on the 10th February. Brussels National Airport (BRU) is experiencing significant flight delays and cancellations due to snowfall and strong winds, and the disruptions will likely continue through to11th February, even if the weather improves, due to a high number of cancellations.

Expect severe traffic delays on all major highways, including those leading to Brussels, Antwerp and Ghent, throughout the day and possibly into 11th February. The snow on E17, E19, E40, Antwerp and Brussels rings has already left some travellers stranded in traffic for up to three hours during the morning commute. ATPI are currently contacting any passengers that may be affected.

Advice
Avoid non-essential road travel in Belgium on 10th & 11th February. Allow additional time to reach destinations, particularly along secondary roads. Carry functioning communication and emergency supplies if travelling extensively on roads in the area. Contact airline to determine flight status.

9th February 2010 - Major snowstorm forecast to move across Midwest and Northeast US

Expect severe transportation, commercial and utility disruptions.

Forecast: Major snowstorm

Time Frame: 8th – 10th February

Location: Midwest and Northeast United States

Impact: Transportation and commercial disruptions, power outages

Summary
A powerful snowstorm will travel across the Midwest and Northeast US starting on 8th February. The storm will bring significant snowfall to a number of major metropolitan areas, including Chicago; Detroit; Washington, D.C.; New York City; Philadelphia; Pittsburgh; Baltimore and Boston. Strong winds are forecast to create blizzard conditions in portions of the Midwest, including Chicago, on 9th February.

Meteorologists predict the heaviest snowfall will hit south eastern Pennsylvania, central New Jersey and New York City, with up to 46 cm (18 inches) possible. Portions of northeast Illinois; southeast Wisconsin; northern Indiana and Ohio; southern Michigan; eastern West Virginia; northern Virginia; Maryland; Washington, D.C.; southern and eastern Pennsylvania; Connecticut and Rhode Island are forecast to receive up to 30 cm (12 inches) of snow. Most other areas will see approximately 8-15 cm (3-6 inches) of snow. Snow predictions may change as the storm continues along its path.

The storm will cause hazardous travel conditions. Significant disruptions are likely at major airports, including Chicago O'Hare (ORD); Chicago Midway (MDW); Washington Dulles (IAD); Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA); Baltimore (BWI); Philadelphia International (PHL); Logan International (BOS); Newark International (EWR); John F. Kennedy (JFK) and La Guardia (LGA). Smaller airports will also be severely affected.

Ground transportation will face major disruptions during the storm. Major interstates may be closed, including I-40; I-70; I-80; I-90 and I-95. It may be several days before all roads in the region are cleared of snow. Rail and mass transit cancellations or delays are also probable.

Business operations will be affected throughout the region. The federal government will remain closed on 9th February; this may be extended to 10th February if the storm brings excessive snow to the D.C. region. Power outages are likely in hard-hit areas. Depending on the extent of the outages, it may take up to a week for power to be fully restored in hard-hit areas.

Advicebr> Monitor local media for the latest weather updates. Avoid nonessential travel during the storm. Verify condition of roadways prior to travel. Confirm all travel and business plans. Allow additional time to travel. Heed the advice of authorities.
1st February 2010 - Avis Non Cancellation Fee

ATPI has been advised that Avis Europe will be implementing a non cancellation fee, which will go live today, 1st February 2010.

The intention of this fee is to encourage all customers to advise Avis when their travel plans change and cancel any reservations that are no longer required, allowing Avis the opportunity to utilise the vehicle for an alternitive reservation. The non cancellation fee is 100% avoidable if the reservation is cancelled or modified any time prior to the time of pick up.

29th January 2010 - Winter Storm - South-Central US

A snow and ice storm is creating hazardous travel conditions across South-Central US through 31st January, expect commercial and transport disruptions.

The locations affected by this alert are:

• North Carolina - Raleigh/Durham
• North Carolina - Charlotte
• Tennessee - Memphis
• Tennessee - Nashville
• North Carolina - Asheville
• Tennessee - Chattanooga
• Tennessee - Knoxville
• Arkansas - Little Rock
• Kentucky - Louisville
• Oklahoma - Oklahoma City
• North Carolina - Greensboro
• South Carolina - Greenville
• Texas - Amarillo
• Kentucky - Lexington
• Missouri - Springfield
• North Carolina - Fayetteville
• North Carolina - Jacksonville
• North Carolina - Wilmington
• Oklahoma - Tulsa
• Tennessee - Johnson City/Kingsport
• Tennessee - Jackson
• Texas - Lubbock
• Arkansas - Bentonville
• North Carolina - Morehead City

This alert began the 29th January 2010 and is scheduled to expire the 30th January 2010

Incident: Snow and ice storm Time Frame: 29th – 31st January.

Affected Areas: Texas Panhandle, south-central Kansas, Oklahoma, northern Arkansas, southern Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina, Virginia, Northwestern South Carolina

Impact: Hazardous road conditions; commercial and transport disruptions

Updated Information
A powerful winter storm is bringing heavy snow and ice to much of the South-Central US. Meteorologists have predicted accumulations of up to 41 cm (16 inches) of snow in higher elevations of North Carolina, Virginia, Kentucky and Tennessee, and approximately 10-20 cm (4-8 inches) for most other areas.

The winter storm warning remains in effect in the region through 30th January.

The storm is causing significant business and transportation disruptions from Oklahoma eastward. The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings and watches for most of Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina and Virginia that will only expire early 31st January. Most government offices and schools in the affected areas are closed, in addition to a number of businesses. Ice accumulations could result in power outages across wide swathes of the affected area. Expect unannounced road closures.

Many airports have severely curtailed operations due to the storm. Airports affected so far on 29th January include: Amarillo International (AMA), Will Rogers Airport (OKC) in Oklahoma City, Tulsa International Airport (TUL), Bentonville Arkansas (XNA), Little Rock (LIT) and Memphis International (MEM). Expect delays in airports farther east, including Charlottesville, NC, (CLT), as the storm moves eastward.

ATPI are in the process of contacting all passengers that may be affected.

Advice
Monitor local media for the latest weather updates. Avoid non-essential travel during the storm. Verify roadway conditions and allow extra time if driving. Flight delays and cancellations in the affected areas will likely have ripple effects across much of the US air traffic control system; confirm all travel arrangements.

29th January 2010 - Rail Strike - France

French SNCF rail workers to strike 2000hrs 2nd February - 0800hrs 4th February. Expect train disruptions; consider alternate transport.

This alert is scheduled to expire 4th Feb 2010 23:59 GMT

Incident: Rail workers' strike

Location: Nationwide on the SNCF network

Time Frame: 2000hrs 2nd February to 0800hrs 4th February

Impact: Moderate to severe train service disruptions

Overview
Four labour unions have called for a 36-hour nationwide strike on behalf of national railway (SNCF) employees to protest plans to cut 1,400 jobs this year. The strike, which is set to begin at 2000hrs 2nd February, will lead to train cancellations and delays throughout the SNCF network. The strike participation rate in France is gradually decreasing and probably only around 25 percent of SNCF employees will honor the strike call. This could still lead to a cancellation rate of around 50 percent in both short- and long-distance connections. International service will be less affected, but could be delayed due to backlogs and track blockades. EUROSTAR trains could experience a very limited number of cancellations.

Advice
Consider alternate transport. Allow additional time to reach destinations. Should you have any questions please conatct your ATP consultant.

27th January 2010 - Construction at John F Kennedy International Airport

ATPI has been advised that airlines may experience delays at New York City’s John F Kennedy International Airport when one of its four runways is shut down for construction commencing from the 1st March.

The longest of JFK’s runways will be closed until 1st July to allow for resurfacing, new lighting and taxiway reconstruction.


27th January 2010 - Rail Strike in Italy

This alert began 26th January 2010 and is scheduled to expire 27th January 2010.

Incident: Trenitalia personnel strike

Location: Nationwide

Time Frame: 2100hrs 26th January -1800hrs 27th January

Impact: Service delays and cancellations

Summary
Trenitalia railway drivers and other personnel have called for a 21hr national strike, starting at 2100hrs 26th January. Approximately 80 percent of the medium - and long-distance trains will likely operate despite the strike. Commuter services, however, could face moderate disruptions.

The Leonardo Express, which provides connection between Rome's Termini station and Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO) will remain operational during the action.

Advice
Expect altered schedules, delays and cancellations on Trenitalia connections. Consider using alternate means of transport.

25th January 2010 - Air traffic controllers strike in Ireland

Authorities have advised ATPI that nearly 120 flights have been cancelled at Frankfurt Airport, because of heavy snow.

Airport spokesman Gunnar Scheunemann said the flights to cities in Germany and Europe were cancelled on Monday 25th January and many more were delayed.

Outbound flights were delayed by up to an hour and inbound ones were up to two hours late.

Scheunemann said the snowfall is easing on Monday but delays are expected to continue through the day.

20th January 2010 - Air traffic controllers strike in Ireland

Air traffic controllers in Ireland to strike this afternoon (20th January); flights at Dublin, Cork and Shannon disrupted.

This alert affects Ireland.

Incident: Air traffic controllers to strike

Location: Dublin (DUB), Cork (ORK) and Shannon (SNN) airports

Date: 20th January

Impact: Airports to close for several hours; severe flight disruptions

Summary
Air traffic controllers at three of the country's most important airports will strike on 20th January. Dublin and Shannon will close from 1400hrs-1800hrs, and Cork from 1600hrs-1800hrs. No flights will arrive or depart at these airports during the strike periods.

Advice
Anticipate significant flight disruptions today. Flights taking place outside of the strike windows could be delayed, as well as connecting flights at other Irish airports. ATPI is currently contacting their passengers who may be affected by this strike, but should you have any questions please contact your ATPI consultant.

19th January 2010 - Indian Employment Visas

ATPI has been instructed by VF Services that, with immediate effect, all Employment Visas must contain an additional information form. This must be included with all Employment Visa applications along with the visa application form.

This is a mandatory requirement and an Employment Visa application without this form will not be accepted.

19th January 2010 - Chinese Visa Application Forms

The Chinese Visa Application Service Centre has instructed that all questions on the visa application form must be answered in full. Any missing information will result in refusal of the application.

For further information about these latest procedures, please contact the ATPI Visa department (visas@atpi.com).

13th January 2010 - Airport Situations

Please be aware that ATP has researched the current airport situations in relation to weather conditions (between 1600 - 1630hrs, and all UK airports are stating open with possible delays and cancellations. Except, Manchester and Plymouth which advise they are open with normal service.

We have also received an update from British Airways (at 16.15hrs) which states as below: WEATHER DISRUPTION UPDATE 1600 GMT, 13th January 2010

Gatwick
Gatwick Airport remains closed but Gatwick Airport Limited advise it is likely to be re-opened at approx 1600.

Heathrow
All domestic flights except Aberdeen have been cancelled for the rest of today. The majority of shorthaul operations have been cancelled today. There maybe further longhaul cancellations in addition to this mornings flights.

Customers are strongly advised to check the status of their flight using the 'arrivals and departures' information websites or contact the airport.

13th January 2010 - Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) compulsory from 20th January 2010

From 20th January 2010 it will be mandatory for all British Airways passengers travelling to the United States under the Visa Waiver Programme (VWP) to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) 72 hours prior to departure*. This online form will eventually replace the green visa waiver form (I94W) which is currently completed whilst en-route to the US.

The ESTA form has been accessible via ba.com since August 2008 when it was recommended that passengers apply for it on a voluntary basis to familiarise themselves with the system. However, from 20th January, this will be mandatory and must be completed by all passengers intending to travel under the Visa Waiver Programme.

Passengers should visit the website: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov and fill in the required information. In most cases a response will be received within seconds determining whether travel to the US has been authorised. If the application is not authorised then a visa may be requested through the US Embassy. In some instances customers will need to wait up to 72 hours for authorisation.

ESTA’s are in addition to the requirement for all passengers to submit APIS data.

US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions regarding ESTA available on their website: www.cbp.gov

Q&A

What is an ESTA?

An Electronic System for Travel Authorisation is an automated system used to determine the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Programme (VWP). Currently citizens of countries eligible for the VWP fill in a green form (I94W) while en route to the US. The ESTA will eventually replace this form. Passengers have been able to apply for an ESTA since August 2008 on a voluntary basis.

*Passengers are advised to apply for an ESTA no later than 72 hours prior to departure.

You can apply for an ESTA even if you do not have a ticket booked to the US.

Do I need to apply for an ESTA?

From 20th January 2010, if you are a citizen of a visa waiver country travelling to the US, you will not be accepted for travel to the US if you do not have a valid ESTA (or Visa/ Green Card).

How do I apply for an ESTA?

Log onto the ESTA website at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov and complete the online application form. *The US Department of Homeland Security recommends that applications be submitted no less than 72 hours prior to travel. In most cases you will receive a response within seconds.

Other websites offer an ESTA service but you may be charged.

What information is required for an ESTA?

The information required for an ESTA is the same as is currently required by the green visa waiter form (I94W).

The traveller must provide biographical data including name, date of birth, and passport information, as well as travel information such as the flight number and destination address in the United States. The traveller will also be required to answer VWP eligibility yes/no questions regarding communicable diseases, arrests and convictions for certain crimes, and past history of visa refusal among others.

You can apply for an ESTA even if you do not have travel booked to the US at the time of application – although you will need to keep a note of the ESTA authorisation number to fill in the flight details when the travel is booked.

We would advise customers who are likely to make trips to the US at short notice to apply for an ESTA prior to any travel being booked.

Will I still need to fill in the green visa waiver form (I94W)?

Yes, although the green visa waiver forms are expected to be phased out during 2010.

Do I need to apply for an ESTA if I have a business visa?

No, you only need apply for an ESTA if you are travelling under the visa waiver programme.

How far in advance can I apply for an ESTA?

VWP travellers are not required to have specific plans to travel to the United States before applying for an ESTA. The US Department of Homeland Security recommends that an ESTA approval be obtained as soon as a VWP traveller begins to plan a trip to the US and *no later than 72 hours before departure.

How long is an ESTA valid?

Approved ESTA applications are valid for two years and allow for multiple trips to the US. However, a new ESTA will have to be obtained if an individual has a new passport within the two-year period or if any answers to the YES/NO questions on the ESTA application form change within this period.

Do I need an ESTA even if I’m just transiting through the US?

Yes, an ESTA will be compulsory for all travel to the US from 20th January, 2010.

Can I apply for an ESTA even if I have no firm plans to visit the US?

Visa Waiver Programme travellers are not required to have specific plans to travel to the US before they apply for an ESTA authorisation.

I am travelling in less than 72 hours. Can I still apply for an ESTA?

The Department of Homeland Security recommends that ESTA approval be obtained as soon as a VWP traveller begins to plan a trip to the US. You do not need to have specific plans to travel to the US in order to apply for an ESTA authorisation.

The vast majority of people applying for an ESTA receive approval within seconds but some applications can take 72 hours to process and a small percentage will be declined.

What happens if I do not have an ESTA when I check in for my flights?

From 20th January 2010, we will not be able to accept VWP passengers for travel if they do not have a valid ESTA.

Passengers will not be issued a boarding pass unless they have an ESTA or the appropriate passport or visa.

Passengers checking in online will be directed to the ESTA website as part of the online check-in process. You will not be able to check-in online without an approved ESTA.

It is the responsibility of the traveller to ensure they have the correct travel documents for their journey.

Passengers may be able to access the online ESTA form at the airport via a computer in the terminal or a hand-held device, or by telephoning a friend or colleague, but it is not guaranteed they would get authorisation for travel in time to make their flight. The application takes up to 15 minutes per passenger to complete. The US Department of Homeland Security recommends that ESTA applications be submitted no less than 72 hours in advance of travel.

Do I still need to fill in my APIS details?

Yes. ESTAs are in addition to the requirement to submit APIS data.

I am not a citizen of a country eligible for the Visa Waiver Programme – how does this affect me?

There is no change to the current visa arrangements for citizens of non-visa waiver countries at this time.

[X] Airline said that I do not need a valid ESTA to travel, why do you require one?

British Airways are fully compliant with the directives of the US Department of Homeland Security. A small number of airlines have been given extra time to ensure they can comply with the mandatory ESTA requirements.

I have received ESTA approval for travel to the US, why are your check-in systems telling me I haven’t received approval?

If the details on your ESTA are not exactly the same as the details in the passport that you are using, the two data sets cannot be reconciled and the US authorities will deem that you do not have a valid ESTA. You will need to reapply.

Please note that if a passenger has not successfully completed and received approval for their ESTA, they will not be able to check-in online.

13th January 2010 - UK Airport Information Update

ATPI has been advised of the following information

London Gatwick Currently flights suspended while runways are cleared
Southampton Currently flights suspended while runways are cleared
London City Currently closed
Birmingham Int Currently closed
Southampton Currently flights suspended
Plymouth All arrivals and departures cancelled

All other UK airports are at present operational but with possible delays.

13th January 2010 - Paris - Airports & ATC Strike Action update

The French capital hunkered down Tuesday for a snow and sleet storm and warning of massive flight cancellations as icy conditions made for treacherous travel around north Europe.

The DGAC said that a two-day airport strike in several cities against reforms of the air transport sector was likely to disrupt air traffic even further.

At Paris's main airports aviation authorities warned that the storm may force airlines to cancel up to half of their flights, with disruption compounded by a strike.

It is highly recommended to check status information directly with the airline or via the online check-in alerts. Due to the scale of the current weather related delays we highly recommend registering with the alert services of the airlines directly when you check-in online.

13th January 2010 - Baggage Handling Delays – Moscow

This alert began Jan12th 2010 20:07 GMT and is scheduled to expire Jan 26th 2010 23:59 GMT.

Incident: Baggage handling delays

Time Frame: Indefinite

Location: Terminals D and F, Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO), Moscow

Summary
Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO) terminals D and F are experiencing sporadic but significant baggage handling delays. In a few cases, the delays have lasted more than three hours.

Background and Analysis
The delays could be due to a number of factors, including new airport construction that prevents planes from taxiing closer to the terminals and the restationing of flights between the terminals. The delays in terminal D could also be due to a dispute between Aeroflot and SVO management. Terminal D has a different ownership structure than the other SVO terminals, which are controlled by the airport. Aeroflot claims that the airport is giving Terminal D the lowest priority for service.

Advice
Allow additional time after arrival to retrieve baggage. Consider restricting baggage to carry-on items. Consider Domodedovo International Airport (DME) as a flight travel alternative.

13th January 2010 - Delta baggage fees increased

Delta has increased its fee for the first checked bag from $15 to $23 on domestic U.S. flights.

The fee increase also applies to flights between the U.S. and Canada, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Delta also increased the fee for the second checked bag from $25 to $32.

The fee increases apply to the checking of bags at Delta.com; if passengers check their bags at the airport, they will be charged $25 and $35 for the first and second bag, respectively.

The fee increases went into effect today for tickets purchased on or after Jan. 5.

Elite frequent flyers and premium-class passengers are exempt from checked-bag fees.

13th January 2010 - Notice on Tourist Visa travel restriction to India

This is for information that there should be a gap of at least 2 months between two visits to India on a Tourist Visa. In case of a requirement to visit India within 2 months, permission should be sought from the High Commission of India, London or the Indian Consulates at Birmingham and Edinburgh directly without going through the VF Services (UK) Ltd. Where permission is accorded in such cases by the High Commission of India/ Consulate General of India, registration with the local FRRO/FRO would be required within 14 days of arrival in India. Processing time of the request will be 3-4 working days.

However, those holding Tourist Visas, who after initial entry into India plan to visit another country and re-enter India before finally exiting, could be permitted more than one entry, as the case may be, subject to their submission of a detailed itinerary and supporting documents i.e. confirmed Air tickets. In view of the change in the Tourist Visa procedure, the government of India has fixed Pounds Seven (£7/-) as a Miscellaneous Charge for according permission to re-enter India within Two months of last exit" A new, additional form is required, available from ATPI Visas on request.

11th January 2010 - Air Traffic Controllers Strike 13th & 14th January - France

This alert affects France.

This alert began 10th Jan 2010 08:28 GMT and is scheduled to expire 15th Jan 2010 23:59 GMT.

Incident: Air traffic controllers strike

Location: Nationwide

Duration: 48 hours, starting early morning 13th Jan

Impact: Moderate to severe flight cancellations and delays

Overview
Four French labour unions representing, among others, air traffic controllers and other aviation workers, have called for a strike to begin early 13th Jan and last for 48 hours. As a result, hundreds of flights to and from airports across France will be delayed and/or cancelled. Long-haul flights will most likely be less affected but some significant delays are possible. The disruptions could be further exacerbated by heavy rain and snowfall forecast for 13th & 14th Jan.

ATPI will be contacting any of their passengers that maybe affected.
Advice
Contact your airline to determine flight status.

11th January 2010 - Eurostar to Operate Restricted Service

Eurostar has advised it will operate a restricted service between Britain and France and Belgium on Monday 11th Jan because of freezing weather conditions.

There will be a reduced timetable with some cancellations including the late evening services, last-minute cancellations are possible, and passengers are advised to postpone their trip to a later date if possible.

11th January 2010 - UK Airports Update

Following on from our previous communications, please be aware that there are some airports throughout the UK, Europe and other countries which are continuing to experience delays and cancellations on some flights. At time of dispatch and information provided between 0900 and 1010 today, we have the following UK airport situations:

Aberdeen - Open, check with airline
Belfast George Best - Open
Belfast International - Open
Birmingham International - Open, check with airline
Blackpool - Open
Bournemouth - Open
Bristol - Open, no update from 10/1/10
Cardiff - Open, no update today
Doncaster Robin Hood - Open, no update from 08/1/10
Durham Tees Valley - Open, check with airline
East Midlands - Open, check with airline
Edinburgh - Open, check with airline
Exeter International - Open, check in as normal
Glasgow International - Open, delays/cancellations
Glasgow Prestwick - Open
Humberside - Open, check with airline
Inverness - Open
Isle of Man - Open
Leeds Bradford - Open, delays, check in as normal
Liverpool John Lennon - Open, check with airline
London City - Open
London Gatwick - Open, check with airline
London Heathrow - Open, DO NOT travel to airport until you check with airline
London Luton - Open, no update from 07/1/10
London Stansted - Open, check with airline
Manchester - Open, check with airline
Newcastle - Open, some delays
Newquay - Open, check with airline
Norwich - Open
Plymouth - Open, some delays & cancellations
Southampton - Open, check with airline

Other transportation may also be affected.

8th January 2010 - Temporary Change to American Airlines' EUROPEAN Carry-on Policy

This notice affects customers travelling to the United States from Europe.

Effective immediately, and until further notice, customers travelling on American Airlines from Europe will be limited to *one* carry-on item. The carry-on item must fit in an overhead compartment or under the seat and cannot exceed 45 linear inches (length + width + height). This limit will apply to customers originating on American Airlines and customers originating on other carriers connecting to American Airlines for flights to the US from Europe.

Customers travelling in First Class, Business Class or with PriorityAAccess will be exempt from this restriction as will AAirpass, AAdvantage Executive Platinum, Platinum, or Gold members and oneworld Emerald, Sapphire, or Ruby members. For these customers, the normal carry-on allowance of one bag plus one personal item still applies.

Checked bag charges will not apply for items that customers intended to carry-on and are now restricted and must be checked. For this waiver to apply, the additional item being checked must be within the carry-on bag size limits.

This restriction applies on all American Airlines flights to the United States from Barcelona, Brussels, Dublin, Frankfurt, London, Madrid, Manchester, Milan, Paris, Rome, and Zurich.

8th January 2010 - UK Airports Update

Following on from our previous communication today, please be aware that there are some airports throughout the UK, Europe and other countries which are continuing to experience delays and cancellations on some flights. At time of dispatch and using information provided between 15.35 and 16.10 today, we have the following UK airport situations:

Aberdeen - Open, delays, check status with airline
Belfast George Best - Open, delays/cancellations
Belfast International - Open, delays/cancellations
Birmingham International - Open, check status with airline
Blackpool - Open
Bournemouth - Open
Bristol - Open, check status with airline
Cardiff - Open, delays, check status with airline
Doncaster Robin Hood - Open, check status with airline
Durham Tees Valley - Open, check status with airline
East Midlands - Open, delays/cancellations
Edinburgh - Open, some cancellations, check status with airline
Exeter International - Open
Glasgow International - Open, check status with airline
Glasgow Prestwick - Open, some delays
Humberside - Open, check status with airline
Inverness - Open, with delays
Isle of Man - Open
Leeds Bradford - Open
Liverpool John Lennon - Open, check status with airline
London City - Open
London Gatwick - Open, check status with airline
London Heathrow - Open, DO NOT travel to airport until you check status with airline
London Luton - Open, check status with airline
London Stansted - Open, check status with airline
Manchester - Open, check status with airline
Newcastle - Open, delays/cancellations
Newquay - Open, check status with airline
Norwich - Open
Plymouth - Open, some delays
Southampton - Open, check status with airline

Other transportation may also be affected.

8th January 2010 - Updates from BA & Eurostar

ATPI has received the following information from BA:

WEATHER DISRUPTION UPDATE, 8 January 2010

Heathrow
The weather conditions are still affecting the operation at LHR and there has been a large number of return trips cancelled on shorthaul and domestic routes. Plus a number of longhaul return trips being cancelled.

Gatwick
Full programme to operate except for a small number of shorthaul returns.

ATPI has received the following information from Eurostar:

Eurostar Update Friday 01:00 GMT

Because of the current severe weather conditions Eurostar will continue to run a restricted service up to and including Sunday 10th January.

If you do not need to travel we recommend you cancel or postpone your trip.In light of the above we are running a restricted service on Friday 8th January with a number of cancellations, including our very early morning and late evening services. Disney and Ski services are running normally.

Also, there may be additional delays or last minute cancellations. We are very sorry for any inconvenience this may cause.

8th January 2010 - UK Airports Update

Following on from our previous communication today, please be aware that there are some airports throughout the UK, Europe and other countries which are continuing to experience delays and cancellations on some flights. At time of dispatch and information provided between 11.50 and 12.20 today, we have the following UK airport situations:

Aberdeen - Open, delays/cancellations
Belfast George Best - Open, delays/cancellations
Belfast International - Open, delays/cancellations
Birmingham International - Open, delays/cancellations
Blackpool - Open, delays/cancellations
Bournemouth - Open, delays/cancellations
Bristol - Open, may have delays & some disruption
Cardiff - Open, no update from yesterday
Doncaster Robin Hood - Open, check status with airline
Durham Tees Valley - Open, no update from yesterday
East Midlands - Open, delays
Edinburgh - Open, check status with airline
Exeter International - Open, delays/cancellations
Glasgow International - Open, delays/cancellations
Glasgow Prestwick - Open, delays/cancellations
Humberside - Open, delays, check status with airline
Inverness - Open, with delays
Isle of Man - Open, delays/cancellations
Leeds Bradford - Open, delays/cancellations
Liverpool John Lennon - Open, some delays & cancellations
London City - Open
London Gatwick - Open, check status with airline
London Heathrow - Open, DO NOT travel to airport until you check status with airline
London Luton - Open, check status with airline
London Stansted - Open, check status with airline
Manchester - Open, check status with airline
Newcastle - Open, delays/cancellations
Newquay - Open, check status with airline
Norwich - Open
Plymouth - Open, some delays & cancellations
Southampton - Open, check status with airline

Other transportation may also be affected.

7th January 2010 - Update from British Airways

ATPI has received the following update from BA:

WEATHER DISRUPTION UPDATE 1645 GMT, 7 January 2010

Severe weather conditions continue to have an impact on our operations at Heathrow and Gatwick.

As a consequence all LHR domestic flights from 1340 to end of operations today will be cancelled, buses are being laid on for both northbound and southbound travel.

All shorthaul departures (except Gibraltar) from LHR Terminal 3 after 1530 are cancelled.

Where possible, we have advised customers of the cancellations in advance. We also strongly urge customers to check the status of their flight on ba.com before leaving for the airport. Trade partners can also access this information on batraveltrade.com.

Customer guidelines are as follows:

General conditions of carriage apply.

Customers who are due to travel today, Thursday 07 January 2010 and Friday 08 January 2010, whose flight is either into or out of London Heathrow and whose flight is STILL OPERATING may refund the ticket purchased to the original form of payment

Customers who are due to travel between Friday 08 January 2010 through to and including Sunday 10th January 2010, and whose flight is STILL OPERATING either into or out of London Heathrow or Gatwick may :

1) Rebook for travel within 28 days of the scheduled departure time of the original flight to the same destination - If the same booking class is not available, the lowest available class in the same cabin may be used - This will be at no additional cost to the customer, and if required, the validity of the ticket may be extended.

2) Rebook for travel outside of 28 days of the scheduled time of departure of the original flight to the same destination - The flight must be re-booked same booking class and travel must take place within the validity of the original ticket purchased. - This will be at no additional cost to the customer.

Customers who are due to travel today,Thursday 07 January 2010, whose flight has been CANCELLED may:

1) Rebook onto an available flight to the same destination within a 28 day period. - This will be at no additional cost to the customer, and if required, the validity of the ticket may be extended.

2) Rebook to the nearest alternative gateway within a 14 day period. - If the same booking class is not available, the lowest available class in the same cabin may be used - Shorthaul customers may choose same country or nearest destination i,e Lyon and Geneva. - For longhaul customers, the nearest gateway refers to the nearest available destination to the original destination e.g If the original destination is New York, alternatives could be Boston, Toronto or Chicago. If the original destination was Bangkok the alternative would be Singapore. - Onward travel from gateway to the customers original destination will be at the customer's own expense

3) Rebook onto a flight to the same destination at a later date in the same booking class and cabin. The flight must be re-booked and travel must take place within the validity of the original ticket purchased. This will be at no additional cost to the customer.

4) Refund the ticket purchased to the original form of payment.

We are sorry for any inconvenience caused.

7th January 2010 - UK Airports Update

Following on from our previous communications, please be aware that there are some airports throughout the UK, Europe and other countries which are continuing to experience delays and cancellations on some flights. At time of dispatch and information provided between 1550 and 1612 this afternoon, we have the following UK airport situations:

Aberdeen - Open, delays/cancellations
Belfast George Best - Open, delays/cancellations
Belfast International - Open, delays/cancellations
Birmingham International - Open, delays/cancellations
Blackpool - Open, delays/cancellations
Bournemouth - Open, delays/cancellations
Bristol - Open, delays/cancellations
Cardiff - Open, delays/cancellations
Doncaster Robin Hood - Open, delays/cancellations
Durham Tees Valley - Open, delays/cancellations
East Midlands - Open, delays/cancellations
Edinburgh - Open, delays/cancellations
Exeter International - Open, delays/cancellations
Glasgow International - Open, delays/cancellations
Glasgow Prestwick - Open, delays/cancellations
Humberside - Open, delays/cancellations
Inverness - Open, delays/cancellations
Isle of Man - Open, delays/cancellations
Leeds Bradford - Open, delays/cancellations
Liverpool John Lennon - Open, delays/cancellations
London City - Open, delays/cancellations
London Gatwick - Open, significant disruptions
London Heathrow - Open, delays/cancellations
London Luton - Open, delays/cancellations
London Stansted - Open, delays/cancellations
Manchester - Open, delays/cancellations
Newcastle - Open, delays/cancellations
Newquay - Open, delays/cancellations
Norwich - Open, delays/cancellations
Plymouth - Open, significant disruptions
Southampton - Open, delays/cancellations

Other transportation may also be affected.

Please call your ATPI consultant should you have any concerns for your travel plans, or access the airport websites for further information.

7th January 2010 - Eurostar – disruption

ATPI has been advised of disruption to Eurostar services today and possibly through until Monday 11th.

The Eurostar website states the following:

Because of the current bad weather conditions across northern Europe Eurostar will be running a restricted service over the next few days. If you need to travel you should still check-in 30 minutes before the departure time shown on your ticket, however your service may be subject to cancellation or delay.

If you do not need to travel we recommend you cancel or postpone your trip to a later date. Your ticket can be exchanged or refunded for free through your original point of purchase at any time in the next two months.

We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

Should you have plans to travel via Eurostar over the coming days, we would suggest contacting your ATPI consultant for alternative options.

7th January 2010 - Continuing Travel Disruption

Following on from our communication yesterday evening, please be aware that there are some airports throughout the UK, Europe and other countries who are continuing to experience delays and cancellations on some flights. At time of dispatch and information provided between 0845-0900 this morning, we have the following UK airport situations:

Aberdeen - Open, delays/cancellations
Belfast George Best - Open, delays/cancellations
Belfast International - Open, delays/cancellations
Birmingham International - Open, delays/cancellations
Blackpool - Open, delays/cancellations
Bournemouth - Open, delays/cancellations
Bristol - Open, delays/cancellations
Cardiff - Open, delays/cancellations
Doncaster Robin Hood - Open, delays/cancellations
Durham Tees Valley - Open, delays/cancellations
East Midlands - Open, delays/cancellations
Edinburgh - Open, delays/cancellations
Exeter International - Open, delays/cancellations
Glasgow International - Open, delays/cancellations
Glasgow Prestwick - Open, delays/cancellations
Humberside - Open, delays/cancellations
Inverness - No Information available
Isle of Man - Open, delays/cancellations
Leeds Bradford - Open, delays/cancellations
Liverpool John Lennon - Open, delays/cancellations
London City - Open, delays/cancellations
London Gatwick - Open, delays/cancellations
London Heathrow - Open, delays/cancellations
London Luton - Open, delays/cancellations
London Stansted - Open, delays/cancellations
Manchester - Open, delays/cancellations
Newcastle - Open, delays/cancellations
Newquay - Open, delays/cancellations
Norwich - Open, delays/cancellations
Plymouth - Open, delays/cancellations
Southampton - Open, delays/cancellations

Other transportation may also be affected.

Please call your ATPI consultant should you have any concerns for your travel plans, or access the airport websites for further information.

6th January 2010 - Travel Information

Due to the continually changing weather situation in the UK, Europe and other countries, up to date information on each airport's operating situation is difficult to provide at this time.

As soon as we become aware of an airport closure, we are contacting passengers who may be affected to advise them of the situation.

Should you have any concerns for your travel plans, please contact your ATPI consultant who will be happy to obtain the latest advice for your flight.

ATPI would also like to advise you to check the airport web site, where up to date information should be available.

6th January 2010 - ATP Offices

Due to adverse weather conditions around the country some ATP offices may be closing early today.

All calls will be diverted to alternative teams and emails will be answered throughout the course of the day. Should you have any urgent reservations or concerns, then please contact ATP via telephone ( using your usual contact number).

All non urgent enquiries will be dealt with on a date order basis.

We would like to thank you in advance for your patience and understanding at this difficult time.

Please accept our sincere apologies for any inconvenience this may cause.

6th January 2010 - Travel Issues due to Weather

Heavy snow likely to disrupt transportation across much of the UK through at least 7th January. Expect traffic, rail and flight disruptions.

Affects United Kingdom.

Summary
The UK Met Office has issued severe winter weather warnings 6th January for much of southeastern England, including London, as a band of snowfall is moving from north to south through Britain. Wintry conditions persist across the UK, however. Meteorologists expect up to 40 cm (16 inches) of snow by the end of 6th January across central and southern England.

Flight disruptions and cancellations across the UK are likely through 6th January. At the time of despatch of this message, we are aware of the following airport situations:

Open – Expect Delays, Edinburgh, Birmingham, Glasgow, Manchester, Leeds Bradford

Open – Check with airline before arriving, Stansted, Heathrow, Aberdeen, Teeside, Liverpool, Southampton & Luton

CLOSED - Gatwick.
Train delays are possible in Greater London, the Midlands, Sussex and Kent. Southeastern Trains will operate with limited services on revised schedules on 6th January, as will South West Trains. Train routes through hard-hit Surrey, Hampshire and Dorset will likely be severely delayed. Abandoned vehicles have caused delays and blockages on the A27 between the M27 and Segensworth. Expect delays due to hazardous conditions in Lancashire on the M58 and M6, in Cumbria on the A66 and on the M6 between Newton-le-Willows and Croft near Warrington.

Advice
Expect travel disruptions due to icy roads, as well as train and flight cancellations, across central and southern England through at least early 7th January. Allow additional time to reach destinations. Contact your airline and rail operator to confirm all reservations. Seek updated information on road conditions and pack emergency supplies before driving. Allow additional time for travel in the southern and eastern UK through at least 7th January.

5th January 2010 - Airport Information and Travel Advice

Manchester Airport Update
A significant amount of snow has fallen overnight and continues to fall at the airport and across Greater Manchester. The forecasts show that the situation is unlikely to clear before 1200 so operations will remain suspended until then at Manchester Airport. Manchester Airport have taken this decision, as they want to ensure that safety is maintained on the airfield for the airlines and passengers.

A further decision about snow clearance on the airfield will be taken at that time taking into account the weather forecasts for the rest of the day. They advise all passengers flying today to check with their airlines for the latest up-to-date information on their flight.

General Air Travel Information
Due to adverse weather conditions and the current cold snap affecting the UK, Europe & other countries, passengers are being advised to check with the airport to ensure their journey has not been affected in any way.

5th January 2010 - ATP Manchester Office closure

Due to the inclement weather conditions in and around our Manchester Servicing Office (which includes ATP's Hotel Desk), we unfortunately will be closing the office at 11am today.

All calls will be transferred to alternative offices. Therefore, should you have any urgent reservations or concerns, then please contact your ATP consultant via telephone (using your usual contact number) and a consultant from another office will answer your call.

Any emails received are being monitored, but phone calls will receive priority at this time. Please accept our sincere apologies for any inconvenience.

29th December 2009 - Passenger Notice - American Airlines

ATPI has received the following notice from American Airlines:

Effective immediately and until further notice, all customers travelling on American Airlines flights departing from any foreign location to the United States are recommended to arrive at the airport at least THREE (3) hours in advance of their flight to provide additional time to check in, clear security and board the aircraft.

29th December 2009 - Entry Fee Introduced – Argentina

An entry fee has been introduced for US, Canadian and Australian visitors entering Argentina through Buenos Aires Ezeiza International Airport (EZE). The fee is only collected at Buenos Aires Ezeiza International Airport (EZE). Persons with Argentine visas, official passport holders, and residents of Argentina are exempt.

Fees are as follows:

US: USD 131 (Multiple entries, good for 10 years)
Canada: USD 70 (Single-entry)
Australia: USD 100 (Single-entry).

Argentina does not require a visa for US, Canadian and Australian citizens to enter for business or leisure travel.

29th December 2009 - Ground Staff Suspend Strike Action - Heathrow and Aberdeen

Staff from SAS Ground Services UK Ltd (SGS UK) have suspended their planned strike action at London Heathrow and Aberdeen airports. SGS UK workers provide baggage handling and check-in services to Turkish, Emirates and Thai airlines at London Heathrow and KLM, Air France, Wideroe and Atlantic at Aberdeen.

22nd December 2009 - ATP Christmas and New Year Opening times

ATP offices will be open on the following days:

24th December (Christmas Eve) - 0830 -1800hrs
25th - 28th December inclusive - CLOSED
29th December - 0830 – 1800hrs
31st December (New Year's Eve) - 0830 -1800hrs
1st January (New Year's Day) - CLOSED
4th January - 0830 - 1800hrs
Except Aberdeen, who re-open Tuesday 5th January 0830 - 1800hrs

We would like to take this oportunity to wish all our customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

21st December 2009 - Baggage Handlers Strike 22nd Dec - 4th Jan 2010

The locations affected by this alert are:
• London
• Aberdeen

Incident:
Baggage handlers strike

Location: London Heathrow (LHR) and Aberdeen (ABZ) airports
Time Frame: 22-24th, 26-27th Dec and 3-4th Jan 2010

Overview
Airport baggage handlers at LHR and ABZ airports are going on strike intermittently between 22nd Dec and the 4th Jan to demand higher pay. Only workers represented by airline industry union Unite will be on strike and only luggage transported by the following airlines will be affected.

At London Heathrow:
• Turkish Airlines (TK)
• Emirates (EK)
• Thai Airways (TG)

At Aberdeen Airport:
• KLM (KL)
• Air France (AF)
• Virgin Atlantic (VS)
• Wideroe (WF)

Advice
Expect baggage handling and processing disruptions at LHR and ABZ during the strike period. Wintry weather in mid-December already disrupted luggage service at some British airports even without a strike. If severe weather coincides with the labour action, baggage-handling delays could be severe. Make plans to minimise shipment of critical goods through LHR and ABZ during the strike period.

ATP has been advised that the airlines expect flights to operate close to the normal schedules.

21st December 2009 - Severe Winter Weather – Europe

The locations affected by this alert are:

• Frankfurt
• Amsterdam
• Brussels
• Paris
• Dusseldorf

To begin Dec 20th 23:53hrs and is scheduled to expire Dec 25th 2009 23:59hrs.

Comments
Severe winter weather has caused massive disruptions to air, road and rail travel across several cities in Europe. Flights delays and/or cancellations have been reported at: Paris' Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Orly (ORY) airports, Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport (AMS) and Frankfurt Airport (FRA). Closures at Brussels Airport (BRU), Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL), Liege Airport (LGG) and Dusseldorf International Airport (DUS) are likely to cause disruptions through at least 21st Dec. Heavy snowfall and ice has also caused disruptions to rail service and road transportation.

Disruptions will likely continue over the coming days with more snowfall and freezing rain forecast and as cancelled trips are rescheduled and backlogs cleared.

Advice
Confirm all travel arrangements. Allow additional time for travel. Check local media for updates on road conditions.

21st December 2009 - Eurostar Services - Update

Eurostar service disruption continues. The attached release from Eurostar follows their continued disruption to services after extreme weather conditions in Northern France appear to have caused mechanical breakdown on a number of trains.

Update 8:00pm Sunday

EUROSTAR WILL NOT BE OPERATING SERVICES ON MONDAY 21st December.

We sincerely regret having to take this decision and we understand how frustrated and disappointed travellers will be, particularly those who have been waiting to travel for the last two days. We strongly advise passengers whose travel is non-essential to change their booking to a later date or claim a refund on their tickets. We have also announced our compensation policy for inconvenienced travellers. We will provide a further update regarding Tuesday’s services by 6pm on Monday.

21st December 2009 - Summary of New Rail Passengers Rights

Community legislation must lay the foundation for helping passengers to understand and exercise their rights. The single market for passenger rail transport is in the coming. First steps have been taken at national level. EU-wide cross-border rail passenger traffic will be opened to competition in 2010.

In this situation the promotion of measures to safeguard the quality of rail services and users' rights are essential and the rail industry will benefit from a level playing field. Community legislation for Rail Passenger Rights will enter into force on 3 December 2009.

Please click here to read the full legislations in full or to download them as a PDF.

18th December 2009 - Ethiopian Visas

In order to be accepted, applications for Ethiopian visas now require two application forms with photos, two UK company support letters, and two additional copies of the passport data pages. Should you have any questions relating to Visa or Passport requirements, please contact ATPI’s Visa team on visas@atpi.com

17th December 2009 - British Airways Strike Called Off

Please see below a statement provided by British Airways. We are delighted for our customers that the threat of a Christmas strike has been lifted by the court.

It is a decision that will be welcomed by hundreds of thousands of families in the UK and around the world.

There was never any need for a strike and we hope that Unite will take this opportunity to reflect before deciding its next steps. We believe the public would want that too.

In recent days, we believe Unite has formed a better understanding of our position and of the ways in which we could move forward.

It has also become very clear that our customers do not believe that old-style trade union militancy is relevant to our efforts to move British Airways back toward profitability. Financial success is essential to build the kind of business our customers want and provide long-term opportunities for our staff.

Further information on our commercial policy and Q&A's will follow shortly.

17th December 2009 - Disruption to Paris flights

Flights delays and cancellations are expected today, 17th December, at Paris Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports due to snow and freezing conditions. These cancellations concern short haul and medium haul flights.

We are advised that Air France will do its utmost to fly its passengers to their destination as soon as its operations resume as scheduled. We have no details of other airlines which may be affected.

15th December 2009 - British Airways Strike - Update

We attach the latest information from British Airways on their policy with regard to the proposed strike starting next week. Further information will follow as we get it from BA. ATP customers have now been rebooked where appropriate and informed of alternative arrangements. However, at this time BA have not confirmed that they will refund tickets, nor what amended timetable will be operated.

GENERAL Q&AS ABOUT THE INDUSTRIAL ACTION, AS SUPPLIED BY BRITISH AIRWAYS

What does the strike mean for customers?
Our operational planning teams are now assessing our flight schedules for the strike period.

We hope customers will understand that re-planning rosters for 14,000 cabin crew and 3,000 pilots, and flying schedules for 230 aircraft across more than 70 different countries will take some time. However, we aim to announce the schedule for the strike period as soon as possible.

Why can’t you tell people now what your schedule is going to be?
We are currently reworking our flight schedules for the strike period and aim to announce them as quickly as possible.

We will be proactively communicating with customers and updating ba.com as soon as possible.

Is it going to be possible to have any kind of flight programme for 12 consecutive days of strike action?
We are currently reworking our flight schedules for the strike period and aim to announce them as quickly as possible.

Will anyone be able to fly at all during the industrial action?
We are currently working through our schedule and will announce any changes and customer options as soon as we can.

We will be proactively communicating to affected customers and regularly updating our trade and corporate partners, as well as ba.com with the latest information.

We will be allowing customers who have a booking over the strike period and for two days on either side, to rebook onto another BA flight in the next twelve months.

Does BA have a contingency plan?
We have a number of contingency plans ready.

We have had to wait for the result of the ballot and the proposed dates for industrial action before we can put those plans into action.

CUSTOMER GUIDELINES AND ADDITIONAL INFO FOR AFFECTED CUSTOMERS

What are you going to do for customers (customer guidelines)?

We understand the uncertainty that our customers must be facing at the moment.

We will announce any changes to our schedule as soon as possible.

In the meantime, customers who have a booking over the industrial action period announced by Unite between December 22, 2009 and January 2, 2010, and 48 hours on either side are able to rebook onto another BA flight in the next twelve months.

Customers wishing to change flights booked during the strike period should call their travel agent.. Customers with a direct booking can contact BA directly on our specially dedicated number 0800 727 800 in the UK or by contacting their local British Airways office worldwide.

Will I be able to rebook into any available cabin?
We will allow customers to rebook into any available class in the same cabin as their original booking.

What about customers on transfer flights/unable to connect to another carrier/half way through travel?
We are currently working through our schedule and will announce any changes and customer options as soon as we can. We will be proactively communicating to our trade and corporate partners and affected customers and regularly updating ba.com with the latest information.

What’s the best way for people to check whether their flight is operating?
We will be proactively contacting as many affected customers as possible and we would also ask them to refer to ba.com for the latest details. They can check the status of their flights and arrivals and departures information via the site.

What are you doing to let customers know in advance that their flight is affected?
We will be communicating with our trade and corporate partners regularly via email and via BATraveltrade.com. We will also be regularly updating ba.com with the latest information.

Will customers have pay a different fare if flights are reinstated?
No, if we cancel flights we will allow customers to rebook into any class provided it is in the same cabin.

Can I book back on to my original flight if it’s reinstated?
Yes.

Will BA rebook into any available class?
If a customer’s flight is cancelled we will rebook them into any available class on another date, provided it’s within the same cabin.

Can I book with another carrier or train operator and get my money back, as I am worried about getting to my destination?
Customers who are booked to fly who wish to change their booking can do so to another BA flight in the next twelve months.

Customers whose flights have been cancelled are able to refund, rebook or reroute.

We will not pay for tickets on other forms of transport.

What about your subsidiaries?
Mainline services from London City to New York JFK, our subsidiaries such as BA Cityflyer, and franchise/codeshare will continue to operate as normal.

Can I book onto them?
Yes, subject to availability, we will rebook people into any class within their original cabin.

Are you going to have to pay out compensation?
We view the industrial action as 'extraordinary circumstances', which means that BA is not obliged to pay compensation as per Regulation 261/04.

BA will of course continue to comply with its passenger care obligations (e.g. provision of meals, hotel accommodation etc. as appropriate) as per that Regulation.

14th December 2009 - British Airways Strike

British Airways cabin crews plan to strike over the busy Christmas period with a walkout by 12,500 cabin crew between 22nd December and 2nd January.

Cabin crew announced the strike dates at a meeting of Unite union members this afternoon following a ballot of staff over changes to staff numbers and budgets.

Services are also expected to be disrupted on the days before and after the scheduled strikes.

We are currently reviewing the bookings we have for our customers over the affected period. Your travel consultants will be holding logical alternatives for you. Please don’t hesitate to contact your consultant or account manager to discuss the options available.

Our priority at present is to hold logical alternatives. The information we currently have regarding refunds on BA tickets is that tickets can only be re-booked to an alternative date free of charge and not refunded. This policy could change of course. Our priority at present is to give our customers an alternative option where possible.

9th December 2009 - US Presidential Visit 10th Dec - Oslo

Summary
US President Barack Obama is scheduled to visit Oslo on 10th Dec to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. He will arrive at Oslo Airport (OSL) at 0845, and weather permitting, take a helicopter into the city. Otherwise, he will travel to the capital by car, which could prompt road closures on E6 highway. His departure date has not been announced.

Obama will visit the Nobel Institute and attend talks with Norway's Prime Minister and the King at the Royal Palace ahead of the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony, which will begin at 1300. Street closures near the Grand Hotel in central Oslo are possible, as he will likely be staying there during his visit. Traffic disruptions could also occur near City Hall, the Nobel Institute, and the US Embassy. Several bus and tram lines will not operate in those areas on 10th Dec.

Advice
Expect travel delays at OSL early 10th Dec and during Obama's departure. Expect public transportation disruptions, short-term traffic restrictions and parking bans in central Oslo. Avoid all demonstrations.

30th November 2009 - LIAT Airline Strike Threat - Caribbean

Leeward Islands Air Transport (LIAT) Airline pilots are threatening to strike as early as 1st December so flight disruptions are possible throughout the eastern Caribbean.

This alert affects the Caribbean.

Summary
Leeward Islands Air Transport pilots have threatened to strike as early as 1st December if a collective bargaining agreement is not reached with management. A strike would disrupt flights across the eastern Caribbean; LIAT services all islands between the Dominican Republic and Georgetown, Guyana. In many areas, charter planes are the only alternative; such flights are likely to fill quickly in the event of a strike.

30th November 2009 - Passenger train services affected by strike - South Korea

An ongoing railway workers' strike is now affecting passenger train routes in South Korea. Expect significant passenger and freight rail disruptions.

This alert affects South Korea.

Incident: Rail strike
Duration: Indefinite
Location: Nationwide
Impact: Significant freight and passenger rail disruptions

Summary
An ongoing Korea Railway Workers' Union countrywide strike has begun to seriously impact passenger rail services. State-owned Korean Railroad Corporation (KORAIL) passenger train operations were operating at about 60 percent of capacity. Passenger train delays and cancellations will probably continue to increase, particularly on Saemaeul and Mugunghwa inter-city trains. High-speed KTX train services, most commuter trains and city subway services are unaffected.

25th November 2009 - Civil Servants Strike in Turkey Today

Civil Servants Strike in Turkey – Today, 25th November 2009

Civil Servants throughout Turkey are striking today to demand the right to strike and higher wages.

The protests by public workers have affected public transportation.

24th November 2009 - Cancellations of fast train service out of Euston

Route affected: London Euston, Watford Junction, Hemel Hempstead, Tring, Bletchley, Milton Keynes Central, Northampton, Rugby and Birmingham New Street/Stafford/ Stoke-on-Trent also East Croydon, Shepherds Bush, Harrow & Wealdstone, Hemel Hempstead, Tring & Milton Keynes Central.

Because of overhead wire problems at Hemel Hempstead, journeys may be delayed by up to 60 minutes.

Virgin Trains
A reduced service is running to and from London Euston. Services that start from and terminate at Birmingham New Street, or start from and terminate at Manchester Piccadilly may be cancelled. Customers should travel on the next available service.

Southern
Services between East Croydon and Milton Keynes will start from and terminate at Watford Junction. Customers should use London Midland services between Watford Junction and Milton Keynes.

London Midland
Services are running through the area with delays of up to 45 minutes, a reduced service running between London Euston and Tring.

24th November 2009 - Saudi Arabian Visa Applications

The embassy of Saudi Arabia has suspended the acceptance of visa applications ahead of the planned closure at the end of this week. Applications received by ATPI Visas will be held at our offices until the 2nd December when the embassy are scheduled to begin accepting applications once more.

24th November 2009 - Alitalia and Air One planned strike action

ATPI has been informed that Alitalia and Air One airline personnel and air traffic controllers are scheduled to strike for four hours on 25th November. Expect moderate flight delays and cancellations nationwide.

Summary
Pilots and other personnel of Italian airlines Alitalia (AZ) and Air One (AP) plan to go on strike 25th November between 1000hrs - 1400hrs and 1200hrs - 1600hrs respectively to protest working conditions. In addition, air traffic controllers across Italy will also strike 1000hrs - 1400hrs.

Expect moderate flight delays and cancellations throughout Italy tomorrow. Most affected flights will likely be domestic; due to code sharing between AZ and AP, flight disruptions could occur throughout the afternoon and into the evening of 25th November, and be significant at smaller airports. Long-haul connections are unlikely to be affected directly, especially to Italy.

Strikes in Italy are very often cancelled at the last minute; there is an application pending with the Italian Ministry of Transport to cancel the AZ strike at short notice.

24th November 2009 - Air France moves terminal

Air France has moved from Heathrow Terminal 2 to join other SkyTeam partners in Terminal 4. The SkyTeam partners and associates operating from Terminal 4 now are: Air France, KLM, Czech Airlines, Delta and Kenya Airways.

24th November 2009 - Changes to procedure when travellers fail to join a British Airways flight

BA have advised us of a new procedure when travellers no-show for part of their itinerary. Previously there was an unofficial grace period during which subsequent flights on the same itinerary remained live, allowing ATPI or the traveller to rebook or use those flights even if the original flight was not used.

With immediate effect BA are cancelling any onward sectors as soon as they are aware that a passenger has failed to join the first part of the itinerary.

Please ensure that you advise ATPI if you will not be using ANY of your booked flights, in order that we can best ensure that the appropriate reservations are held for any subsequent itinerary.

19th November 2009 - US Flight Delays and Cancellations

Widespread flight cancellations and delays may be experienced in the US because of a problem with the Federal Aviation Administration system that collects airlines' flight plans.

ATPI are currently contacting clients who may be affected but should you have any concerns or require urgent information, please contact your ATPI consultant.

19th November 2009 - Russian Visas

Following our communication yesterday, the Service Centre for Russian visas has instructed that any application that lists "No Further Education" in Question 28 of the application form must now provide a letter detailing why this was the case. The letter should be addressed to the embassy, from the applicant, and briefly detail why no further education was undertaken and what experience they now have for the position they hold.

If this question does not appear, as is the case for the single page applications (based on nationality), then submission can proceed as normal.

19th November 2009 - Saudi Arabian Embassy Closure

The embassy of Saudi Arabia has announced closures for Thursday 26th November until Tuesday 1st December 2009, during which time visa services will be suspended. Delays may be encountered upon resumption of services.

19th November 2009 - Nigerian High Commission Closure

The Nigerian High Commission has announced closures for Thursday 26th and Friday 27th November 2009. Services are set to re-open on Monday 30th November, but please allow extra time for visa processing.

13th November 2009 - Heavy Snow in Northern China

Finnair pilots are threatening strike action from 16th November at 00:01hrs.

The official action has not been decided, as a final decision to strike will be made at 15:00hrs tomorrow, 14th November.

ATP has been contacting any of their passengers who may be affected by this possible strike action.

11th November 2009 - Heavy Snow in Northern China

Significant snowfall is forecast in Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei, Shanxi, Ningxia and Xinjiang provinces; transport disruptions are likely through at least 12th November.

The locations affected by this alert are:

• Beijing
• Tianjin
• Xian
• Urumqi
• Jinan
• Zhengzhou

Time Frame: 11th -13th November

Summary
Heavy snow has resulted in extensive air travel disruptions and highway closures in northern China, especially in the capital of Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei, Shanxi, Ningxia and Xinjiang provinces, since late on 9th November. Meteorologists expect the snow to continue at least through 12th November.

Snow forced authorities to close all highways in Shanxi Province. Sections of roads and highways in the national capital region and Hebei Province are also closed. The snow has also caused flight diversions, cancellations and delays at regional airports, including Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and Yinchuan Hedong Airport (INC) in Ningxia Province. On 10th November, authorities shut down the Taiyuan Wusu Airport (TYN) airport in Shanxi Province due to ice on the runway.

Advice
Be prepared for delays and cancellations. Delayed flights due to backlogs are possible even when conditions improve. Companies that rely on air and ground transport in the affected regions should prepare for possible supply chain disruptions. Widespread power outages and telecommunications disruptions could also occur.

10th November 2009 - Tropical Cyclone 04A tracking towards India

Tropical Cyclone 04A is tracking north through the Arabian Sea west of Goa and Mumbai, India, 10th – 11th November. Landfall is likely in Gujarat State, 12th November.

Storm Details (0530 GMT 10th November)

Centre of Circulation: Approximately 300 km (187 miles) west-southwest of Panaji, Goa State, and and 550 km (342 miles) south-southwest of Mumbai, Maharashtra State

Intensity: Maximum sustained winds of 65 kph (40 mph) with higher gusts

Projected Landfall (Date): Anand/Ahmedabad districts, Gujarat State (12th November)

Affected Areas: Kerala, Lakshadweep, western Karnataka, Goa, western Maharashtra, southern Gujarat.

Summary
Tropical Cyclone 04A is tracking northward through the Arabian Sea west of Goa and Maharashtra states. The storm is forecast to strengthen during 10th and 11th November, but it will weaken before it makes landfall west of Vadodara (Baroda), Gujarat State, on 12th November.

Heavy rains and strong winds are possible in coastal areas of of western India, including Goa State and the Mumbai metropolitan area. Inland flooding is possible in the Pune and Nasik regions. Flooding is also likely when the storm makes landfall in Gujarat, particularly in the Anand and Ahmedabad districts. The storm could force the evacuation of offshore oil rigs and disrupt production at Bombay High and other oil and gas fields in the Gulf of Cambay. Rough seas could also temporarily disrupt shipping and port operations in Kochi, Mangalore, Panaji, Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and Surat (Hajira). Flight disruptions are possible at airports throughout the affected region, including Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (BOM).

There may be power and communications outages and transport disruptions in the coastal Karnataka, the Konkan region (including Mumbai and Goa) and Mahdya Maharashtra. Problems may affect business continuity, including power and telecommunications outages and urban flooding which could disrupt commuter transport.

6th November 2009 - Iberia possible strike action

Spain's national carrier Iberia, has announced the cancellation of around 350 flights next week due to possible strike action by cabin crew.

Iberia is cancelling some flights scheduled for 10th – 11th November, due to possible strike action called by the CTA and SITCPLA cabin attendants unions.

The walkout will affect around 350 national and international flights.

Travellers planning to travel with Iberia may wish to re-schedule

ATPI are currently in the process of contacting any of their passengers who may be affected by this possible action.

6th November 2009 - Finnair pilots possible strike action

Pilots at Finnair, have set 16th November as the date for possible strike action.

It is possible that both domestic and international operations could be affected.

Travellers planning to travel with Finnair may wish to re-schedule

ATPI are currently in the process of contacting any of their passengers who may be affected by this possible action.

6th November 2009 - Alitalia Moves to London Heathrow Terminal 4

ATPI has been advised that, as of the 10th November, Alitalia will move to the newly refurbished Terminal 4 at London Heathrow airport (where the ticket office and check-in desks will be located).

All the other SkyTeam partners will also be located at T4.

Passengers who hold Business Class tickets or are members of Freccia Alata or Freccia Alata Plus Clubs may access the new SkyTeam VIP Lounge (daily opening hours from 05:30 a.m. until the departure of the last evening flight).

3rd November 2009 - Eurostar and other Rail services hit by Belgian National strike action

Eurostar services due to travel to Brussels on 5th November were cancelled yesterday, as a strike on Belgian railways means the entire rail network in the country will close.

There will be no rail services operating between Lille and Brussels Midi station. This will affect all rail providers using these locations.

There will also be no high-speed onward rail connections from Brussels to destinations in France, the Netherlands and Germany. Eurostar is currently advising customers to change their travel plans.

ATPI has contacted any of their passengers who may be affected. But, should you have any questions, or need assistance, please contact ATPI’s Rail Department on rail@atpi.com, or telephone 0870 722 0003.

30th October 2009 - Typhoon Santi, Philippines

Typhoon Santi is expected to make landfall east of Manila, Philippines, 30th – 31st October. Expect damaging winds, flooding, transport disruptions.

Summary
Typhoon Santi (Mirinae, 23W) has intensified and is currently forecast to make landfall as a Category 2 storm in Quezon Province northeast of the National Capital Region on 30th – 31st October. The centre of circulation will track across Luzon Island north of the capital, but high winds, heavy rains, flooding, and landslides are likely in numerous provinces. Organisations operating in Metro Manila, Central Luzon, and the Bicol and CALABARZON regions should review contingency plans and be prepared for lingering transport and commercial disruptions through at least 2nd November.

Much of Luzon is still suffering from the effects of tropical storms Ketsana and Parma in September and October; tens of thousands of people remain in government-run evacuation centres. Santi will lose some energy when it crosses the Quezon coast, but the threat of flooding and landslides is high in Aurora, Quezon, Nueva Ecija, Bulacan, Rizal, Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales, and Pangasinan provinces. The flood risk currently appears to be highest in the Pampanga River Valley; authorities have started pre-emptive spilling operations at the Pantabangan Dam.

The centre of circulation is not currently forecast to pass directly over Metro Manila, but wind damage and urban flooding is possible, especially if authorities are forced to release water from dams that feed tributaries that run through the city.

1st - 2nd November is a national holiday throughout the Philippines (All Saints'/All Souls' Day). This is a peak travel period when millions of people typically drive, fly, or take ferries to reach their hometowns. Santi will likely cause prolonged air, road, and maritime travel delays. Authorities will likely halt flight operations at numerous airports in the Luzon region during the peak of the storm, and ferry traffic will be suspended on a number of heavily trafficked sea lanes due to rough seas. The Philippine Coast Guard has already halted passenger traffic at several eastern ports.

Probable Flight Disruptions 30th October – 1st November

Metro Manila: Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL)

Clark Air Base/Angeles City: Diosodo Macapagal International Airport (CRK)

Subic Bay: Subic Bay International Airport (SFS)

Baguio: Baguio Airport (BAG)

The storm will probably force authorities to shut down operations at secondary airports throughout the affected region, including Plaridel (PRB), San Fernando (SFE), Bagabag (BGN), Virac (VRC), Naga-Pili (WNP), Daet (DTE), Calapan (CPP), Gasan (MRQ), Lubang (LBX), Mamburao (MBO). The storm could also disrupt flights at Tuguegarao (TUG), Vigan (VGN), and other airports in northern Luzon.

Shipping disruptions are likely at major ports in Metro Manila (Port of Manila, Manila International Container Terminal, Harbour Centre Port Terminal), Bataan (petroleum facilities in Limay), Batangas (Port of Batangas and petroleum facilities), Zambales (Subic Bay Freeport), and La Union (Poro Point Port, San Fernando).

Advice
Avoid unnecessary travel between 31st October and 1st November, particularly in provinces north of Metro Manila. Prepare for power and telecommunications outages and possible disruptions to municipal water supplies; stock up on bottled water and non-perishable foods. Use particular caution if operating in mountainous areas in the path of the storm. Confirm flights. Due to the flooding threat, stay away from rivers, streams, and identifiable low-lying areas of Metro Manila through at least 2nd November.

29th October 2009 - Advanced Passenger Information UK Requirements From 30th October 2009

ATPI has been advised that The UK Government will require Advanced Passenger Information for all passengers travelling internationally into and out of the UK.

Advance Passenger Information means providing certain information to the authorities before you travel, such as your passport details and, where necessary, your contact information. This can be completed through airline websites dependant on who you are travelling with, when you check in online, or via your ATPI Consultant.

Currently Advance Passenger Information is required for travel to and from the following countries before your flight:

Bermuda Mexico
Canada Spain
Caribbean South Africa
China Thailand
India Turkey
Japan United Arab Emirates
Kenya USA
Malta

In addition to the above from 30th October 2009 Advanced Passenger Information will need to be provided when travelling to and from:

Male
United Kingdom

From 11th November 2009 Advanced Passenger Information will need to be provided when travelling to and from:

UAE
Bahrain
Qatar
Hong Kong
Ukraine
Muscat
Brazil)
Israel

This information is compulsory and is required for the purposes of ensuring aviation safety and security.

Below is a list of the information required:

Full given names
Surname
Gender
Nationality
Date of birth
Travel document number e.g. passport number
Travel document expiry date
Travel document country of issue
In order to minimise unnecessary delays at the airport, it is essential thatall travellers provide the API prior to travelling to the airport:

If your company has provided you with access to your own personal details online via our eProfile tool, then please logon and update your information as soon as possible.

Should you not have access to the online tool and need to provide us with amended information, please contact your ATPI consultant.

Secure Flight Passenger Data – for travel to, via or over the USA

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) mandates that passengers provide their name as it appears on their passport, date of birth, and gender when making an airline reservation. The required information is known as Secure Flight Passenger Data (SFPD) and is applicable for travel to, via or over-flying the United States.

ATPI has been advised that collection of passenger data under the SFPD program will be mandatory from 31st October 2009.

In order to comply with TSA regulations, all reservations require the following additional passenger information to be sent when making a reservation:

Full name: name on the ticket should match the name on the passport used when travelling
Date of birth:
Gender:

Airlines have to provide the required information to the US authorities at least 72hrs prior to departure. For reservations made less than 72 hours prior to departure a manual screening will be performed by the US authorities.

More detailed information is available on the TSA website

27th October 2009 - Mumbai (Bombay) Airport Closure, Tuesdays

Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai, India, will be closed for six hours every Tuesday from 27th October 2009 to 30th March 2010 for runway maintenance.

This alert affects Mumbai (Bombay).

Event: Airport Closure
Time/Duration: 1200-1800 hours on Tuesdays from 27th October 2009 to 30th March 2010
Location: Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai
Impact: Flight delays, cancellations, diversions

Summary
Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (BOM) will be closed between 1200 and 1800 hours every Tuesday from 27th October 2009 to 30th March 2010 due to runway repair and reconstruction work. Private carriers, Kingfisher Airlines (KFR) and Jet Airways (9W), which operate most flights in the afternoon slot, said they have cancelled or rescheduled their flights at Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport on Tuesdays. These include some domestic operations and a couple of flights on the Mumbai-London and Mumbai-Singapore sectors.

Advice
Travellers are advised to be aware that flight schedules may change at short notice.

19th October 2009 - Flight Cancellations Paris, France

Flight Cancellations - Paris, France

Indefinite strike action by ground staff at Orly airport in Paris began 19th Oct 2009 and scheduled to expire 21st Oct 2009

Incident: Flight cancellations
Time Frame: Indefinite
Location: Orly (ORY) airport in Paris

Information
Employees of Servisair (an airport ground operations service provider), have been on strike at Paris' Orly airport, causing some flight cancellations. The employees are likely to continue their labour action indefinitely and the work stoppages could affect operations at Paris' major airport Charles de Gaulle (CDG) as well. The strike will likely affect EasyJet (U2), Air Caraibes (C4) and Royal Air Maroc (AT) and its subsidiary Atlas Blue (8A) exclusively. As of 18th Oct EasyJet has cancelled all domestic flights from ORY and redirected all international flights to CDG. Royal Air Maroc and Atlas Blue flights destined for ORY were also redirected to CDG. Flight operators have provided shuttle service for passengers whose flights have been redirected.

16th October 2009 - French Rail Workers Strike, 19th - 21st October

French rail workers on strike 2000hrs 19th October until 0000hrs 21st October. Expect train service disruptions, consider alternate transport.

This alert affects France.

Incident: Rail workers' strike

Location: Nationwide

Duration: 2000hrs 19th October until 0000hrs 21st October

Impact: Moderate to severe train service disruptions

Details
French labour unions will strike over labour contract issues starting 19th October. SNCF, the rail provider, claims it will maintain minimal services, yet the strike will most likely lead to train cancellations and delays throughout the SNCF network. International services including EUROSTAR will be less affected but could be delayed due to backlogs and track blockades. During recent nationwide, union-organised transport strikes, many train drivers disobeyed the union's calls to strike, but travellers should assume that the entire SNCF network will be affected.

Advice
For travel arrangements in France during the strike period, consider alternative transport or allow additional time to reach destinations.

14th October 2009 - Postal Workers' Strike - London, UK

Incident: Postal strike

Date: 14th Oct
Location: London
Impact: Mail processing, distribution and delivery disruptions

Forecast
Thousands of postal workers based in London who are members of the Communication Workers Union (CWU) will strike on 14th Oct to protest over pay, working conditions and modernisation of the company.

This strike is likely lead to severe disruptions in mail processing, distribution and delivery in London. The action in London comes as the CWU is preparing a series of nationwide strikes starting on 22nd Oct.

Advice
Expect delays in mail service for several days after the strike, as postal employees are likely to be working through a significant mail backlog. Consider using alternative delivery services, including private services, particularly for critical deliveries.

12th October 2009 - Tropical Storm off China and Vietnam

Tropical Storm Parma to strike Hainan, China, 12th October, before making landfall in northern Vietnam, 13th – 14th October. Flooding and transport disruptions likely.

The locations affected by this alert are:

• Cambodia
• Laos
• Thailand
• Vietnam
• Haikou
• Sanya

• Devices such as Mobile phones with camera, data storages, Computer Desktops, Laptops, MP3 players with memory cards
• A special gadget will be inserted to the devices to check and scan files and software. Material deemed illegal and pornographic photos will be recorded on the authorities main computer
• All devices with illegal software and pornographic pictures will be immediately confiscated
• No fines will be charged, however refusing to give up the device means you will be sent to jail and deportation.

• Please do not arrange to pay any fees online; ATP arrange visa fee payment on your behalf
• Applications marked for Express or Normal issue cannot be changed once submitted
• The validity or number of entries cannot be changed once the form is submitted
• The application form has a 15 day shelf life; if not presented during this period, a new form is required