Passengers had to deal with canceled flights during the pandemic. But instead of getting their money back, passengers received flight credits. However, this could soon change for passengers in Europe. A total of sixteen major European airlines committed to improving passenger compensation rights for canceled flights due to the pandemic.
Among sixteen major airlines are Air France, British Airways, KLM, Iberia, Ryanair, and Lufthansa. This new commitment involves issuing refunds within seven days if flights were canceled during the pandemic.
This move comes after the European Commissions and the European Consumer Rights Protection Groups (BEUC) discussed potential consumer rights violations during the pandemic. Monique Goyens, CEO of BEUC said that “During the pandemic, airlines have massively violated consumer rights”. She added, “Many customers across Europe are still waiting for refunds for flights canceled during the first lockdowns in 2020”.
The airlines pledged to raise awareness regarding passenger compensation rights. For instance, airlines committed to distinguishing flight cancellations made by airlines from flight cancellations made by passengers. Also, passengers will only receive vouchers if they insist.
The 16 major airlines promised to notify passengers via their website, emails, and other means of communication. Airlines will offer rerouting, refunding, and vouchers for their customers.
Improving Passenger Compensation Rights
EU Commissioner for Justice Didier Reynders said that pushing passengers to take vouchers was “unacceptable”. Reynders said that “They were acting against EU consumer protection rules”. Reynders added that “I am pleased that most of them have now agreed to refund these vouchers”.
Passengers now have the option to turn their unused vouchers into cash. And also, passengers, who will have difficulty getting reimbursement because they purchased via an intermediary, can go directly to the airline for refunds.
EU Commissioner for Transport Adina Valean welcomes the new commitments. She said that “This is crucial to restoring passengers’ confidence. The recovery of the air transport sector depends on this”.