Which? comments after Gatwick Airport cancels summer flights
Rory Boland, Editor of Which? Travel, said:
“Reducing the number of flights operating this summer may well be sensible in providing a more reliable service and fewer last-minute cancellations, but it certainly wasn’t sensible to make this announcement without first agreeing with airlines operating from Gatwick which flights would be cancelled.
“Passengers with trips booked are now in a panic about whether their flight will be one of those disrupted. The airport should have worked with airlines to confirm and communicate all changes to customers first, as this drip feeding of information is hugely unhelpful.
“Gatwick must provide clarity on which flights are being cut, and in turn airlines need to be upfront with those passengers affected about their right to be rebooked at the earliest opportunity, including on services from other airlines.”
ENDS
Notes to editors
- Passengers whose flight is cancelled less than two weeks before departure could be entitled to compensation. Airlines should also offer affected passengers a refund or reroute them as quickly as possible using other carriers if necessary, and provide refreshments and accommodation as required while they await their new flight. Which? consumer advice guide: I had a flight cancellation, can I claim compensation?
- If their flight is cancelled more than 14 days in advance, airlines should offer passengers a refund or reroute them as quickly as possible using other carriers if necessary