ITAA respond to WOW Air closure
TRAINING DATE: 08/08/2019
The Icelandic Airline announced it has ceased trading
Dublin, 28th March 2019 The Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA) have commented on the news that as of Thursday 28th April 2019, WOW Air has ceased trading. Daily return flights from Dublin to Reykjavik, Iceland have been cancelled with immediate effect.
The ITAA is advising affected holidaymakers who have booked with a bonded and licensed ITAA travel agent to make contact with their travel advisor who can assist with the booking.
Holidaymakers who have not booked through a travel agent will have limited recourse and may not receive repatriation. Those who purchased a ticket using a credit or debit card may be eligible for a chargeback option and should contact their card provider. Travel insurance holders may be covered under airline failure and should contact their provider for further details.
The ITAA has repeatedly called on the government to review the legislation around bonding among travel providers in Ireland. As WOW Air’s collapse follows just five months after the sudden closure of Cobalt Air, Irish travel agents are expressing concern over the lack of bonding among all travel providers by the Commission for Aviation Regulation (CAR).
John Spollen, President of the ITAA, said “The ITAA have been pushing for a collective bond among all travel agents, tour operators and airlines and have contacted the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport many times about this issue. As airlines are among the largest travel providers in Ireland, we believe it is necessary that they, along will all other travel providers, be bonded in order to protect Irish consumers. “
Spollen continued, “Undoubtedly, the sudden cancellation of flights is causing disturbance to travellers booked with WOW Air and we are advising any affected Irish holidaymakers to get in touch with their travel agent, who can make arrangements for alternative travel. When faced with travel disruption, booking with a fully bonded and licensed ITAA member will ensure that the holidaymaker is secured and supported throughout their travel plans.”
The ITAA represents Ireland’s travel Industry, bringing together 100 travel agent members and 70 affiliate partners. ITAA members cover over 140 outlets in different towns and cities throughout the Republic of Ireland. All travel agent members are licensed by the Commission for Aviation Regulation and are fully bonded providing full financial protection for their customers.