Outward and return flights booked on different (low-cost) airlines through online agency - Passenger rights in case of outward flight cancellation
Sometimes, online travel agencies (such as Opodo) sell return tickets where the outbound and return flights are with different low-cost airlines (e.g., FlyBE and Eurowings). After booking what is presented to the customer of the online travel agency like a single ticket, you receive two record locators, one of each low-cost airlines involved.
Now let us assume that the outbound flight is canceled due to bad weather. If the later return flight is not canceled due to bad weather, what are my refund rights? Can I contact the online travel agency for a refund of the complete journey, or do I have to live with only getting a refund for the outbound flight from the airline serving the outbound flight?
I am particularly interested in flights within the European Union, where the cancellation of the outbound flight happened after the check-in. Not asking for a friend.
Best Answer
I am afraid that even under EU261 rules, the second airline would not be obligated to cancel or refund anything, and neither would the agency.
Under EU261 only the operating airline is obligated to provide any refund, rerouting or compensation - neither the booking agency nor any subsequent travel with separate airlines are covered.
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Can I get a refund if my outbound flight is Cancelled?
You can get your money back for any part of the ticket you haven't used. So if you booked a return flight and the outbound leg is cancelled, you can get the full cost of the return ticket refunded. If you still want to travel, your airline must find you an alternative flight.What rights do you have when your flight is Cancelled?
If your flight is cancelled and you choose to cancel your trip as a result, you are entitled to a refund for the unused transportation \u2013 even for non-refundable tickets. You are also entitled to a refund for any bag fee that you paid, and any extras you may have purchased, such as a seat assignment.What happens if my outbound flight is Cancelled?
If your flight is cancelled. You have the legal right to either: a full refund - including other flights from the airline that you won't use in the same booking such as onward or return flights. a replacement flight to get you to your destination.Do airlines have to compensate for Cancelled flights?
Under federal law, airlines are obliged to provide a full refund to customers if a flight is significantly delayed and the passenger chooses not to travel.European airline strikes leave thousands of flights cancelled – BBC News
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