Farm Insurance Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Insurance Claim Rejected After Flight Crew Timing Violation

Insurance Claim Rejected After Flight Crew Timing Violation

Insurance Claim Rejected After Flight Crew Timing Violation?w=400

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

A traveler who faced a canceled flight due to the flight crew reaching their legal working hour limits will only receive partial reimbursement for his expenses.
This ruling came from an official complaints authority.

The frustrated passenger incurred additional costs when his flight from Palermo to London was unexpectedly stopped because the crew had worked the maximum hours allowed by law. He expected full coverage for these expenses under his travel insurance policy.

However, Lloyd’s Australia, the insurer, denied the claim, stating that the travel policy’s clause on additional expenses and disruption coverage only applies to events such as strikes, riots, hijacks, civil unrest, adverse weather conditions, or accidents involving the mode of transport.

The claimant argued otherwise, insisting that the crew reaching its working hours limit was akin to industrial action such as strikes, implying that the insurer had a too narrow interpretation of the policy's disruption cover. He stated that the restriction on working hours is a precaution to prevent accidents, which aligns with the "spirit of the policy".

Yet, The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) did not accept this reasoning.

AFCA pointed out the scant information provided by the claimant which linked the flight cancellation directly to crew working hours being exceeded. They reinforced that this situation is distinct from a strike.

“A strike constitutes a deliberate refusal to work, whereas regulatory limits on work hours are a constraint and not a chosen action,” noted the AFCA's ombudsman. “Additionally, equating flight crew timing regulations with an accident scenario is not fitting, since the clause in question applies to actual incidents happening, not cancellations meant to forestall potential accidents.”

However, AFCA acknowledged a part of the travel policy which offers coverage for scenarios where a flight is delayed over six hours due to uncontrollable circumstances.

Under this provision, the insurer is required to compensate the complainant with the policy’s cap of $2000.

“Although the insurer claims that these circumstances are specifically excluded by the policy, they failed to indicate which exclusion they are relying on and provide justification for triggering it. Therefore, it is unconvincing that the insurer has adequately clarified its entitlement to decline or reduce the claim under this section,” AFCA concluded.

This case was originally reported by Insurance News Australia.

Published:Monday, 9th Sep 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Envest Group Unveils TLI Underwriting: A New Era for Heavy Motor Fleet Insurance
Envest Group Unveils TLI Underwriting: A New Era for Heavy Motor Fleet Insurance
21 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
Envest Group, a prominent player in Australia's insurance sector, has announced the launch of TLI Underwriting, a new agency dedicated to providing specialized insurance solutions for heavy motor fleet operators. This strategic move aims to address the unique challenges faced by larger transport businesses in Australia. - read more
ASIC Initiates Legal Proceedings Against QBE for Alleged Misleading Discount Practices
ASIC Initiates Legal Proceedings Against QBE for Alleged Misleading Discount Practices
21 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has commenced legal action against QBE Insurance, alleging that the insurer misled more than 500,000 customers regarding premium discounts over a five-year period. This development has significant implications for the Australian insurance industry, particularly for policyholders seeking transparency and fairness in premium calculations. - read more
Hutch Underwriting's Trade Pack: Simplifying Insurance for Australian SME Tradies
Hutch Underwriting's Trade Pack: Simplifying Insurance for Australian SME Tradies
21 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
Hutch Underwriting has unveiled Trade Pack, a comprehensive insurance solution designed specifically for Australia's small and medium-sized trade businesses (SMEs). This innovative product aims to streamline coverage and alleviate the administrative challenges often faced by brokers and tradies alike. - read more
IAG's AI Integration: Revolutionising 'Make Safe' Repair Assessments
IAG's AI Integration: Revolutionising 'Make Safe' Repair Assessments
21 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
Insurance Australia Group (IAG) has integrated generative artificial intelligence (AI) into its property claims assessment process, specifically to determine the necessity of 'make safe' repairs. This technological advancement aims to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs associated with unnecessary contractor dispatches. - read more
Hollard Insurance's Costly Lesson: The Impact of Contractor Negligence
Hollard Insurance's Costly Lesson: The Impact of Contractor Negligence
21 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
Hollard Insurance has been ordered to pay over $225,000 in compensation after contractors appointed by the insurer caused significant dust damage during home repairs. This case underscores the critical importance of diligent contractor oversight in the insurance industry. - read more
BIA Introduces Integrated Indemnity and Liability Insurance Solution
BIA Introduces Integrated Indemnity and Liability Insurance Solution
21 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
Berkley Insurance Australia (BIA) has announced the launch of a combined professional indemnity (PI) and public liability (PL) insurance product, set to be available from June 1 through the Steadfast Client Trading Platform (SCTP). This initiative aims to simplify the insurance process for brokers and their clients by offering a unified policy that addresses both professional and public liability risks. - read more
Markel Unveils Tailored Professional Indemnity Insurance for Australian Market
Markel Unveils Tailored Professional Indemnity Insurance for Australian Market
21 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
Markel, a US-based specialty insurer, has launched a suite of professional indemnity (PI) insurance products specifically designed for the Australian market. These offerings cater to professionals in accounting, construction, design and construct, insurance, media, and miscellaneous sectors. - read more
Australian Insurers Report Record Profits Amid Public Scrutiny
Australian Insurers Report Record Profits Amid Public Scrutiny
20 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
The Australian general insurance industry has reported an after-tax profit of $7.3 billion for the last financial year, marking its strongest performance in over a decade. This significant profit surge is attributed to lower-than-expected catastrophe losses and robust investment returns. However, this financial success has sparked public discourse regarding the fairness of pricing practices and the overall perception of the industry. - read more
ASIC Highlights Compliance Risks in Insurers' Claims Handling Practices
ASIC Highlights Compliance Risks in Insurers' Claims Handling Practices
20 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has identified significant weaknesses in the claims handling practices of several insurers, raising concerns about potential compliance breaches. The regulator's recent review points to deficiencies in the oversight of expert reports and inadequate communication with consumers regarding cash settlement offers. - read more
Australian Insurers Brace for Earnings Slowdown After Record Profits
Australian Insurers Brace for Earnings Slowdown After Record Profits
20 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
After achieving a return on equity (ROE) of 19% in the last financial year-the highest in a decade-Australian general insurers are preparing for a moderation in earnings growth. Consultancy firm Finity projects that the industry's ROE will decrease by six percentage points to 13% in the current financial year, aligning with the target range of 10% to 15%. - read more


Farm Insurance Articles

Understanding Farm Equipment Insurance: A Breakdown for Australian Farmers
Understanding Farm Equipment Insurance: A Breakdown for Australian Farmers
In the dynamic world of Australian agriculture, farm equipment plays a crucial role in the day-to-day operations of farms. From tractors to harvesters, having the right machinery means managing your farm more efficiently. However, the high value of this equipment makes it essential to protect it adequately through insurance. - read more
What Australian Farmers Should Know About Crop Insurance
What Australian Farmers Should Know About Crop Insurance
Crop insurance is a type of insurance policy designed to protect farmers from the financial losses that arise from damages to their crops. This could be due to various risks, including adverse weather conditions, pests, and diseases. - read more
Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Insuring Your Farm Equipment
Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Insuring Your Farm Equipment
In the world of agriculture, having the right insurance coverage is essential. Farming is a high-risk industry that deals with unpredictable elements, and insuring your farm equipment can safeguard your livelihood. - read more
Customized Insurance Solutions: The Advantage of Specialized Farm Brokers
Customized Insurance Solutions: The Advantage of Specialized Farm Brokers
Farming in Australia is more than just a way of life; it is a critical sector that supports the nation’s economy and food supply. However, managing a farm comes with its own set of unique risks. From natural disasters to equipment failures, farmers face numerous challenges that can impact their livelihood. - read more
How to Protect Your Harvest: Tips for Choosing the Right Crop Insurance
How to Protect Your Harvest: Tips for Choosing the Right Crop Insurance
Farming, at its core, is an enterprise fraught with uncertainty. Weather calamities, pests, diseases, and fluctuating market conditions can all impact the output and quality of produce. This is where crop insurance proves its worth, serving as a safety net for farmers against the myriad risks they face each season. - read more
A Farmer's Guide to Essential Farm Insurance Terminology
A Farmer's Guide to Essential Farm Insurance Terminology
Farming is a vital industry in Australia, requiring significant investment in equipment, crops, livestock, and labour. As with any major investment, protecting it is crucial. That's where farm insurance comes in. - read more
The Modern Farmer's Checklist for Assessing Farm Equipment Insurance Needs
The Modern Farmer's Checklist for Assessing Farm Equipment Insurance Needs
As the backbone of Australian agriculture, farm equipment plays an essential role in day-to-day operations across our expansive and diverse landscapes. From the vast wheat belts to the tropical fruit farms, machinery ensures efficiency and productivity in the face of constant challenges. But with reliance on such equipment comes significant risk—the financial burden of damage or loss can be devastating to a farmer's livelihood. - read more
Future-Proofing the Farm: What Every Tech-Savvy Australian Farmer Needs to Know About Insurance
Future-Proofing the Farm: What Every Tech-Savvy Australian Farmer Needs to Know About Insurance
Welcome to the first steps in future-proofing your farming legacy. When we think about the hustle and bustle of daily farm life, it's easy to overlook the critical importance of estate planning. For the Australian farmer, estate planning is not just a matter of securing your assets; it's about ensuring the survival and progression of your hard-earned labour to the next generation. - read more
Insurance for Hobby Farms: Finding the Right Coverage
Insurance for Hobby Farms: Finding the Right Coverage
Hobby farming has become increasingly popular in Australia, with many individuals and families embracing the joys of growing their own produce, raising livestock, and enjoying a rural lifestyle. Whether it's a small vegetable garden, a few chickens, or a larger mixed farming operation, hobby farms offer both relaxation and a connection to nature. - read more
Tractors, Livestock, and Crops: Tailoring Your Farm Insurance to Fit Your Needs
Tractors, Livestock, and Crops: Tailoring Your Farm Insurance to Fit Your Needs
Welcome to the world of farming, where the fruits of your labor are as tangible as the soil you till. But just as the land is subject to the whims of nature, so too is the business of agriculture. This is where farm insurance becomes essential. Farmers face a set of challenges and uncertainties unlike any other industry, primarily due to the unpredictable forces of weather. - read more


Need a Quote?
Start your free farm insurance quote comparison here.
Farm Type:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided free and without obligation by a specialist from our national broker referral panel. See our privacy statement for more details.


Knowledgebase
Grace Period:
A time period after the premium is due during which an insurance policy remains in force even if the premium has not yet been paid.