Edinburgh holidaymakers have been given essential advice following airline Flybe ceasing trading last week, with all scheduled flights cancelled.
The once-popular airline entered administration on Friday (January 27), and customers have been advised not to travel to airports, unless an alternative flight has been booked.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) said anyone who still needs to travel should make new arrangements via other airlines or through rail or coach operators. Charity Advice Direct Scotland, who runs the consumer advice service website, has said that the collapse of Flybe is concerning for customers.
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They have released advice for those who booked directly with the airline, on ways they can ensure they receive a refund.
Bookings via credit card (over £100)
Any purchases costing over £100 on a credit card may be eligible for a refund from the credit card provider under consumer credit laws.
Attempts can also be made to reclaim anything paid with a credit or debit card through individual customers’ own banks.
Bookings via credit card (under £100) or by debit card
Claims may be possible through the Chargeback scheme via bank accounts. The bank or card provider should be contacted directly to see if this is possible.
Travel insurance
Some travel insurance policies may cover for flight cancellation. Those who cannot claim through credit and debit card routes can check with their travel insurance provider if they are covered through their policy for airline administration.
Claiming via the administrator
Failing the other methods outlined above, a claim should be made directly to the administrators. David Pike and Mike Pink of Interpath have been appointed as joint administrators.
Suppliers and creditors of the company – including passengers who have paid for travel and are unable to claim by other means – who require any further information or assistance can contact the administrators here.
However, it is important to note that it may take some time for this to be processed.
Package holidays through third parties
Flybe does not offer package holidays. If a package holiday has been booked with a third party and Flybe flights are part of this, and the package is ATOL protected, then consumers are covered by the ATOL scheme.
This scenario could potentially mean increased costs for a change of flights. However, consumers should discuss this directly with the company that they booked this through as alternative arrangements may already be in place.
Colin Mathieson, spokesperson for Advice Direct Scotland, said: "The collapse of Flybe will be causing huge concern with customers who had made plans to travel with them.
"All scheduled flights have been cancelled and people must now make alternative arrangements, which will be causing disruption. People will also be worried about losing money paid for these bookings.
"There are a range of different ways customers can attempt to claim this back, depending on the payment method used.
"Anyone who requires further advice on what to do next should visit www.consumeradvice.scot or contact our advisers on 0808 164 6000."
More information can be found on the CAA’s website.
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