If your flight gets canceled, you can rebook or get a refund within seven days. The airline, not the travel agent, is responsible for refunding you, whether you booked through an agent or directly. The money gets paid into the same account you used to pay. Contact the travel agent for a refund before the airline. Credit card companies are jointly liable for contract breaches. This means if the travel company refuses a refund, make a ‘Section 75 Claim’ with your card company.
Role of Travel Agents and Airline Refunds
Travel agents act as intermediaries between travelers and airlines, hotels, tours, etc. Their main job is to book travel based on client preferences. Refund policies vary. Agents typically follow policies of the companies they work with. Package Travel Regulations require tour operators to refund customers even if they haven’t gotten airline refunds yet.
Airline Refund Procedures and Legal Rights
Airlines must refund consumers if they cancel or significantly change flights. U.S. law entitles full ticket refunds within 24 hours if booked 7+ days out, regardless of non-refundable tickets. Most basic economy tickets are now non-refundable. The airline is responsible for providing refunds, whether you booked directly or via an agent. Customers report airlines insisting they can’t help those who booked via online agencies. Submit refund requests in writing.
Claims, Lawsuits, and Refund Resolution
To get agency refunds: Don’t call, with long holds. Online agencies plead for customers to refrain from calling unless traveling within 72 hours.
Can you sue a travel agency for not refunding your money? If the agency acts negligently or incompetently, causing financial loss, you may have grounds to sue. Document issues. Consult an attorney about options.
Can travel agents refund money if flights get canceled? Yes, the airline, not the agent, refunds you. Contact the airline first. If no refund, make a ‘Section 75 Claim’ with your credit card company. They are liable for contract breaches.
Contact who you paid for the refund. If third-party site, persist there even if they refer you to the supplier.