Aer Lingus Manchester Cancellation Leaves Passengers in Refund Limbo
Passengers who booked Aer Lingus transatlantic flights from Manchester are facing significant challenges in securing full refunds after the airline confirmed it will end its Manchester transatlantic operation by the end of March. Many travellers, like Alison M, who booked through third-party online travel agents (OTAs), report being charged fees for refund processing and denied reimbursements for assigned seat costs.
Understanding Refund Rights and Agency Fees
Simon Calder, addressing the issue, explains that while booking through OTAs can offer savings, it often complicates refunds when plans change. In this scenario, agencies are permitted to charge reasonable cancellation fees to cover administrative costs. However, Calder questions why seat reservation fees should not be refunded, urging affected passengers to contact their agencies for explanations.
If unsatisfied, passengers can consider legal action for unjust enrichment or contact their card issuers for chargebacks. For those still planning to travel, Aer Lingus may offer rebooking options, though routes might require connections via Dublin.
Tips for Avoiding Solo Travel Supplements
In response to a query from Sally H, Calder shares insights on solo travel, highlighting its advantages such as deeper cultural immersion and flexibility. He notes that solo travellers often face supplements, with costs up to double per person compared to couples. To mitigate this, he recommends seeking smaller, family-run hotels with single rooms, opting for hostels, or assembling DIY trips during off-peak periods to save money.
Best Airlines for Mendoza to Santiago Flights
For Baila B's niche question on flying between Mendoza in Argentina and Santiago in Chile, Calder compares options like Latam, Sky, and JetSmart. Despite the short direct distance of 122 miles, flights take over an hour due to detours around the Andes peaks, including Aconcagua. He suggests daytime flights with right-hand window seats for views but recommends an eight-hour bus trip for a more scenic, albeit slower, journey with opportunities for mountain lodge stays.
