Flight Centre is getting rid of cancellation fees amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Since the outbreak of Covid-19, many people have had to cancel their holidays - however some were shocked upon being hit with fees to do so, according to 7News.
Some people were being charged up to $300 to cancel international flights and $50 for domestic travel, despite having no choice in the matter.
More than 6,000 complaints about the travel industry have been forwarded to consumer watchdog the Australian Competition Consumer Commission (ACCC) since social distancing and lockdown laws started in Australia.
Advert
As a result, Flight Centre has agreed to refund any customer who paid the fee from 13 March.
The ACCC said in a statement that this was the right path and was threatening legal action if the company didn't agree to ditching the policy for now.
"This is a very welcome move made by Flight Centre for thousands of customers impacted by Covid-19 travel cancellations," ACCC Chair Rod Sims said.
Advert
"We are continuing to discuss issues in relation to refunds and cancellations with the travel sector, and encourage travel providers to treat consumers fairly in these exceptional circumstances.
"We ask consumers to remain patient and be mindful of the significant pressures on businesses at this time and, where possible, contact the business by email or website, rather than by phone."
The decision to get rid of fees will also apply to other companies within the Flight Centre Group, including Aunt Betty, Travel Associates, Student Universe, Universal Traveller and BYOjet.
Advert
Flight Centre admits the ruling will be a tough financial burden, but concede it's necessary during a pandemic.
Executive general manager Allisa O'Connell said in a statement: "The decision to waive fees will impact our business, nevertheless we have heard your feedback and we believe this step is the right one for the current economic conditions where stand-downs and job losses are a daily occurrence for many Australians.
"Please note this waiver applies to our fees - we cannot waive fees or conditions that airlines and other third-party suppliers impose."
People are encouraged to read the Terms and Conditions for any future deal or policy.
Featured Image Credit: Shoestring at wts wikivoyage (Creative Commons)