Do travel agencies do refunds?

Do Travel Agencies Issue Refunds?

When a flight is canceled or experiences a significant change, passengers often wonder if they are entitled to a refund. If you booked your flight through a travel agency, the answer depends on the agency’s role and responsibilities.

Obligations of Travel Agencies

Travel agencies that act as the “merchant of record” are directly responsible for the sale of the flight. This means that the agency handles the transaction, processes the payment, and issues the ticket. As the merchant of record, travel agencies are obligated to provide refunds if:

• The flight is canceled by the airline.
• The flight experiences a substantial change, such as a significant delay or rerouting.

In these cases, travel agencies are required to process refunds to their customers within a reasonable time frame. The specific timeframe may vary depending on the agency’s policies and the airline’s regulations.

Exceptions

There are some exceptions to the general rule that travel agencies must issue refunds. These exceptions include:

• Non-refundable tickets: Some airlines offer non-refundable tickets at a discounted price. If you purchase a non-refundable ticket, you will not be entitled to a refund even if the flight is canceled or changed.
• Third-party agencies: Travel agencies that are not the merchant of record may not be obligated to issue refunds. These agencies typically act as intermediaries between the customer and the airline. If you book through a third-party agency, you may need to contact the airline directly for a refund.

Procedure for Obtaining a Refund

If you believe you are entitled to a refund, you should contact the travel agency that issued your ticket. You can typically initiate the refund process online or over the phone. The agency will need to verify your identity and confirm the details of your canceled or changed flight.

Conclusion

Travel agencies that act as the merchant of record are responsible for providing refunds for canceled or significantly changed flights. However, it’s important to check the terms and conditions of your ticket to ensure that it is refundable. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact your travel agency for assistance.