The European Commission has announced a positive development for air travellers across the Union, with an increasing number of online travel agencies (OTAs) voluntarily committing to refunding cancelled flights within a strict 14-day timeframe. This commitment, detailed in a press release published on July 31, 2025, marks a significant step towards enhancing consumer protection and streamlining the refund process for passengers.
For a considerable period, travellers who booked flights through OTAs have sometimes faced delays and complexities when seeking refunds for cancelled services. This new wave of voluntary commitments from a significant number of these agencies aims to address these concerns directly, aligning with the spirit of EU passenger rights regulations.
The European Commission has been actively engaging with the travel industry, including OTAs, to ensure passengers receive timely reimbursements, particularly when flights are cancelled by airlines. These agreements are designed to foster greater trust and provide a clearer, more predictable experience for consumers when unforeseen disruptions occur.
The core of this announcement is the commitment from OTAs to process refunds for cancelled flights within a 14-day period from the date the refund is due. This timeframe is a crucial element, as it provides passengers with a reasonable expectation of when they will receive their money back, enabling them to make alternative arrangements if necessary.
This proactive approach by the OTAs demonstrates a dedication to upholding passenger rights and adapting to evolving consumer expectations in the digital age. By voluntarily adhering to a swift refund policy, these agencies are not only fulfilling their obligations but also proactively building stronger relationships with their customers.
While the specific names of all participating OTAs were not detailed in the initial press release, the Commission’s statement indicates a broad and encouraging response from the sector. This collective commitment suggests a growing industry-wide recognition of the importance of swift and transparent refund processes.
Travellers can find reassurance in this development, knowing that more of the platforms they use to book their journeys are taking concrete steps to ensure their financial security in the event of flight cancellations. This initiative underscores the EU’s ongoing efforts to create a fairer and more reliable travel ecosystem for all citizens.
The European Commission will likely continue to monitor the implementation of these commitments and may engage further with the industry to ensure consistent application and broad coverage. This positive stride towards faster refunds is a welcome piece of news for frequent flyers and holidaymakers alike across the European Union.
More online travel agencies commit to refund cancelled flights within 14 days
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EU published ‘More online travel agencies commit to refund cancelled flights within 14 days’ at 2025-07-31 14:27. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.