Brits Stranded in Cape Verde over Christmas

A dust cloud has left Brits stranded in Cape Verde over the Christmas period.

The dust cloud, which originated from the Sahara, has been affecting flights to and from Cape Verde since Boxing Day.

Flights have been unable to take off from or land on the island of Boa Vista, due to poor visibility.

International fights have only been able to fly to and from the island of Sal.

The British FCDO updated their web page to warn travellers: “A sand storm from the Sahara has been affecting Cape Verde since 26 December 2016. Local flights are being affected. Sal is the only island currently receiving international flights.”

The page also advised travellers currently in Cape Verde to: “Stay in touch with your travel company or airline for updates on the situation.”

Thomson flights from the UK to Boa Vista on the 28th, 29th, and 30th December were cancelled.

Thomson flights that have been delayed returning to the UK include flights on the 27th, 28th, and 29th December. Thomson state that these have been delayed until further notice, and when it is safe to operate.

In a statement posted on their website, Thomson said: “Due to poor visibility we have been unable to operate flights in and out of Boa Vista. We are continuing to closely monitor the situation in Boa Vista to ensure customers can return home safely at the earliest convenience.

“We recognise the inconvenience that this may cause, but the safety of our customers and crew is our primary concern. Our dedicated resort teams in Cape Verde are working with the relevant authorities and hoteliers to ensure everyone is looked after and kept updated with the latest information and advice whilst we monitor the situation.”

Thomson customers affected by the delays are being looked after in all-inclusive hotels in Boa Vista. The travel company are also issuing all affected customers who were supposed to fly to Cape Verde over the last couple of days, the option to move their holiday to a different location, or cancel and receive a refund free of charge.

Don’t forget, you can get your travel insurance from Direct Travel at either www.direct-travel.co.uk or ring our friendly UK based travel team on 0330 880 3600.

Published 29 Dec 2016

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