Holidaymakers asked to take vouchers instead of refunds on package holidays during coronavirus pandemic
HOLIDAYMAKERS are being asked to take vouchers instead of refunds for their cancelled trips in a bid to protect the travel industry.
A number of travellers claim they have already been refused their money back and are instead being offered vouchers.
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However, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps could be introducing new regulations later this week which will instead allow package holiday providers and tour operators to offer vouchers instead of refunds.
According to the , holidays equating to £1 billion have been cancelled between March 17 and April 16, following the latest government advice, which Brits are entitled to be fully refunded for.
The huge payout could lead to a number of travel firms collapsing, due to the lack of revenue and refund amounts.
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Instead, consumers could soon be offered vouchers that last up to two years to prevent the collapse of the travel industry.
The European Commission has already updated its guidance on the Package Travel Directive (PTD) in relation to customer claims refunds.
Last week, they encouraged customers to accept credit notes, on the condition that the customer can claim a refund in the future if the voucher is not used and that they are protected if the firm goes bust.
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Airlines could be on the brink of collapse due to the grounding of nearly all flights because of the pandemic.
Experts have explained why it is bad news if a major UK airline goes bust.
Sun Online Travel contacted Jet2 and TUI for additional comment.