Major holiday flight refund rule change for 'summer of uncertainty'
There are fears of disruption this summer thanks to fuel shortages
Package holiday company On the Beach has launched an industry-leading initiative that means holidaymakers can get their money back the same day, if their flight is cancelled this summer. As part of their ‘Cancelled Flight Cover’, which comes as standard on all of their packages, On the Beach will now process refunds immediately, ensuring customers get their money back the same day (dependent on the customer’s bank) so they can make new plans.
The launch comes as the travel industry braces for a summer of uncertainty, with recent reports warning of possible flight cancellations across Europe this summer, with some airlines already trimming schedules amid fuel supply concerns and wider operational pressures.
Other providers do currently provide refunds, but may take up to 14 days to refund, leaving them out of pocket and without a holiday booking. Under On the Beach’s scheme, if your flight is cancelled, On the Beach will find you an alternative flight or give you a full refund on your entire holiday, processing it on the same-day.
Caspar Nelson, holiday expert at On the Beach, said: “Holidaymakers deserve certainty, especially when disruption strikes. We’re proud to be the first package holiday provider to commit to same-day refund processing for cancelled flights, giving customers the confidence to book knowing we’ve got their back when it matters most.
“If the worst happens and a flight is cancelled, we’ll move quickly to either find a new route or return every penny of their holiday money that same day, so they can get a new break booked, make alternative plans fast, and get back to looking forward to their summer instead of worrying about it.”
On the Beach’s new initiative is being launched to remind customers of their legal rights if their flight is cancelled. Under UK rules, passengers are entitled to either a full refund or an alternative flight to their destination. Several airlines have already begun cancelling flights or reshaping schedules ahead of the summer season, as carriers respond to rising fuel costs, airport capacity constraints and wider operational pressures.