Description
Following a dialogue with the European Commission and the national consumer protection authorities (CPC network), the three main European airline intermediation platforms (Edreams ODIGEO, eTraveli Group and Kiwi.com) committed to better inform consumers about their rights in the event of flight cancellations by airlines and to pass on to them the reimbursement of their tickets within seven days of receipt by the airlines.
Under EU passenger rights, airlines that cancel a flight are obliged to refund tickets within seven days after the passenger has opted for a refund. However, as is well known, airline tickets can also be purchased through intermediaries (so-called online travel agencies). Following discussions with the Commission and national authorities, the three main European airline intermediation platforms have now clearly stated that consumers will receive a refund within a maximum of 14 days.
Didier Reynders, Commissioner for Justice, said:"This summer travellers will find it less difficult to get their money back in case of cancellations. Since the COVID-19 crisis, we have acted to increase the resilience of the airline industry and its ability to meet its commitments to consumers, for example by ensuring that airlines have the means to reimburse passengers in the event of a flight cancellation by an airline. This action is a new step to ensure that consumers obtain full respect of their right and receive timely reimbursement of their ticket, whether they have booked directly with an airline or through an intermediary. Consumers will also be better informed about their passenger rights and the possible obstacles they may face when booking through intermediaries."
A press release is available online for more information.
Source: Press Office of the EC Representation
Image: Pixabay