Refunding Your Travel During COVID-19 Pandemic
In the past month, the COVID-19 pandemic has threatened a large number of major industries -- airlines included. As advisories continue to warn the public to stay in their homes and avoid unnecessary contact with others, many people who’ve already booked trips and vacations are making the responsible choice and contacting their airline to request a refund or to postpone their plans.
Certain major airlines, hotel chains, and travel agencies have already adjusted their policies to accommodate free cancellations and ticket changes and provide refund vouchers for future travel. Unfortunately, many have refused to allow cash refunds to their customers, despite cancelled flights, travel bans, and other measures that prevent people from traveling. This is shameful, since many ticket-holders may not have the desire or the flexibility to travel in the future, or even more commonly, need to make use of that money for urgent expenses that will arise as a result of this pandemic.
Airlines need to realize that they are not the only companies that are feeling the pressure of this pandemic. For those who are out of work because of the outbreak or may not want to put family members or friends at risk, they deserve to receive a cash reimbursement for flights they did not take and hotels rooms they did not stay in. Until then, there are some steps that consumers can take to seek out a refund for their plans.
Reach out to the Airline
If the airline or hotel that you booked with doesn’t have a new cancellation policy to address the outbreak, you should ask how they can help you make other arrangements. This includes asking the travel agent if they can give you a cash refund instead of a voucher. If cash refunds aren't included in the airline's policy they can deny your request, but if you have special circumstances they might make an exception.
Move to Social Media
If they don't allow you to change, cancel or receive a voucher for your travel, you can ask the airline to expand their coverage via social media. If enough people take this action by posting and tagging the airline or hotel chain, it may cause them to reconsider their policy during this time.
Check with your Credit Card Company
Certain credit card companies are changing their policies to reimburse non-refundable travel during this outbreak. Contacting the credit card company you used to purchase your flight or accomodations is the quickest way to find out if you qualify.
Contact Airline Closer to Flight Date
Airlines are currently overwhelmed with calls from customers looking to cancel or adjust their flights. Many airlines, travel agencies, and hotels have asked that you delay calling their customer service numbers until closer to your travel dates. Taking this advice will help you avoid longer wait times.
Be as Kind and Patient as Possible
Remember that this is a difficult time for everyone, and the customer service representatives taking your calls are also dealing with the complications that come from this pandemic. Please treat them with respect and kindness, regardless of the outcome of your request.
