Airlines warned over cashing in on ‘no-shows’

WHICH? is warning airlines that they are at risk of breaking consumer law by imposing rip-off “no show” clauses – which they can use to cash in when a passenger misses the first leg of their journey.

The clauses, often buried deep in airline terms and conditions, mean passengers who miss an outbound flight can be considered a “no-show”.

All their connecting or return flights are then cancelled, typically with no refund given, and their seats can be resold – allowing the airlines to double their money.

Passengers often only find out their tickets have been cancelled when they arrive at the airport for their return leg and are forced to buy another seat at a vastly inflated price, or pay a hefty fine – up to €3,000 in some cases – to use their original ticket.

Which? is joining forces with consumer groups in eight countries across Europe to stamp out the unfair practice.

Which? has written to the airlines and asked them to respond by December 28.