Two of Britain’s biggest airlines are denying refunds on expiring vouchers which could leave hundreds of thousands of customers out of pocket during lockdown.
Leading carriers easyJet and British Airways have said they will not follow European guidance on cash refunds. Both said that once issued, their vouchers cannot be exchanged for cash, a move that has been slammed by consumer group Which?.
The pandemic has derailed countless travel plans, with governments around the world constantly changing border restrictions. Many have been forced to accept vouchers which can be used as credit against future bookings that expire within a year.
However the latest lockdowns mean most will be unable to make use the vouchers before they expire, particularly for flights cancelled last spring. Schedules have been significantly reduced and a number of routes have been dropped.
European Union lawmakers had warned the airlines they should refund any unused vouchers 14 days after they expire, but the duo have decided to ignore the calls and will not return cash to customers.
A spokesman at British Airways said the vouchers do not expire until April 2022 and this will be enough time for most to rebook. EasyJet vouchers expire within 12 months, however, a spokesman said the flights they can be used beyond the voucher expiry date. Flights can be booked up until September 2021.
Budget airline Ryanair has allowed its vouchers to be refunded at any time.
