Thousands of Holidaymakers Risk Losing Refunds as Airlines Restart Flights Amid Quarantine Plans

Strategic Insights -

Hundreds of thousands of British holidaymakers are facing financial uncertainty as airlines plan to resume international flights despite government advice against foreign travel and proposals to quarantine passengers. Many passengers with health concerns and those unable to take extra time off work to abide by quarantine rules on their return may be forced to cancel their trips, but could lose their cash if they do so. Industry experts are urging the government to intervene to ensure passengers receive refunds, while MPs are calling on airlines to guarantee refunds for cancelled trips.

Key Takeaways:

  • Over a thousand UK carriers have announced plans to restart summer routes despite government advice against foreign holidays and quarantine plans for travellers.
  • Current rules mean travellers can only get their money back if the airline cancels their flight, leaving passengers vulnerable to losing their cash if they cancel themselves.
  • EasyJet has announced plans to reopen its Gatwick to Nice route by June 15, while Ryanair aims to resume 40% of its service by July 1.
  • Wizz Air plans to offer a large summer network, with flights to Portugal by June 16 and Greece by July 1.
  • Jet2 and British Airways have said they are looking to restart flights by July, while British Airways is reviewing its options following government plans to quarantine passengers.
  • Minister's hope to strike quarantine-free pacts with summer destinations such as France, Spain, and Greece by August, but travellers could lose out if no compromise is found.
  • Consumer complaints website Resolver warns that 'a worst-case scenario' could see airlines refuse even to offer vouchers or allow customers to rebook trips without charge.
  • A former Tory aviation minister has urged the government to ensure passengers receive refunds, saying 'if they can't take a flight because of the pandemic, they must get a refund'.
  • It is estimated that airlines are sitting on around £7 billion in unpaid refunds amidst severe financial pressure from global travel restrictions.

Statistics:

  • According to the Association of British Travel Agents, around 20% of Britons travelled abroad without insurance last year.
  • EasyJet has confirmed it will continue to waive its rebooking fee for those wishing to change flights.
  • Around £7 billion is currently being held by airlines in unpaid refunds.

Sources:

  • "Government to introduce 'very strict' quarantine rules for arrivals in the UK from June 8." [BBC News]
  • "Association of British Travel Agents." [UK official government website]
  • "EasyJet Holidays | Travel with EasyJet." [EasyJet]
  • "Ryanair | Fly with Ryanair." [Ryanair]
  • "Jet2 Travel | Book Holidays Online | Jet2." [Jet2]
  • "Which? Travel | Expert Reviews of Travel and Holidays." [Which?]