CMA warns package holiday firms to respect refund rights ahead of summer trips

Package holiday companies have been warned to respect refund rights of holidaymakers ahead of the return of international travel.

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has published an open letter, as well as sending it directly to the 100 operators with most consumer complaints, reminding firms of their legal obligations around refunds.

In addition, the CMA has stressed the necessity of these firms to provide clear and accessible information on refund options.

Andrea Coscelli, chief executive of the CMA, commented: “International travel is set to resume soon and lots of people will be considering a long-awaited trip abroad. With that in mind, we want to make sure people are fully aware of their refund rights, so they can make informed choices about booking a holiday.

“We’ve secured millions in refunds for people who couldn’t go on their hard-earned trips over the past year and now we’re calling on package holiday companies to make the refund process less hassle in the future.

“We expect all firms to give clear cancellation options and will consider appropriate steps if we see companies breaking the law by refusing or delaying refunds this summer.”

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