Perhaps predictably, the American Society of Travel Agents in the wake of airline bankruptcies is urging consumers to check with their agents for travel options.
But ASTA also recommends, as a last resort, consumers may have to deny the credit card charge.
“The suspension of flight service by Aloha and ATA only serves to emphasize how critical it is that consumers receive sound, third-party advice, the kind that travel agents provide each and every day,†said Cheryl Hudak, ASTA president and CEO. She added:
“Travelers do have options but with most airlines operating at near capacity, accessing these options might not be easy for them to do on their own.â€
There’s no one-size-fits all procedure when airlines fold. Some may make special concessions to affected ticket holders with special rates or even waiving advance purchase restrictions.
Apparently, no federal law provides a mandate to make airlines provide alternate transportation.
If all efforts fail, travelers who paid by credit card can deny the charge.
Under the Fair Credit Billing Act, ticketed passengers have certain rights to refuse to pay credit card charges related to services that were not provided.
In lieu of refunds, ticketed passengers who paid by cash/check or whose credit card dispute was denied by their credit card bank can file a Proof of Claim with a Bankruptcy Court; they can provide details on claim procedures.
By :David Wilkening
