Travel Question: Will insurance pay for delayed and missed flights?

Have a question? Ask our expert Simon Calder

Porland, Oregon – a trip back to Seattle was delayed, incurring costs that could have been avoided (Seeger/Flickr)

Q I booked a return ticket from Gatwick to Seattle on Norwegian and continued to Portland by train. On the return journey, I flew from Portland to Seattle on Alaska Airlines. But the flight was over three hours late, and I missed the flight from Seattle to Gatwick. I bought more tickets at great expense – almost $1,000 (£755). I also had extra costs for my travel home from Gatwick to Plymouth.

I have been in contact with Alaska Airlines, who blame air traffic control at Seattle. Norwegian, of course, do not take responsibility, but have returned the taxes from the original flight I did not take. I have submitted a claim to my travel insurer, but I am not confident. Have you any ideas?

Robin Y