British competition watchdog CMA has launched an investigation into airlines British Airways and Ryanair. The two allegedly failed to refund customers after their flights were cancelled.
The CMA said in a statement it had launched an enforcement case against the companies. During the lockdown period in the United Kingdom, the airlines refused to refund money, while flight bans were imposed from above.
Instead of cashback, British Airways chose to offer vouchers. Both companies also offered rebooking arrangements. By law, UK customers have the right to a refund within 14 days.
The CMA says it understands that airlines are having a hard time during the corona crisis, but people who follow the rules should not be the victims. Customers booked these flights in good faith and were legally unable to fly due to circumstances beyond their control. “We think these people should have gotten their money back.”
British Airways called it “unbelievable” that the government is punishing an industry that is on its knees even more. According to the airline, airlines have been prevented from flying “meaningly” for more than a year. In addition, the company would also have reimbursed customers.
Ryanair says it has considered refund requests on a case-by-case basis. In cases where reimbursement was justified, according to the price fighter, this has also happened.