Note from AFTA re: Taxes and Charges on Non Refundable Tickets
AFTA has received a series of notifications from member agents concerning the policy of some carriers refusing to refund taxes and charges related to non refundable tickets. Items included in this are departure tax, airport charges, security charges, fuel levy, etc. – all of which do not apply if the passenger has not travelled.
It should, however, be noted that charges which may be levied by the airline for the issue of a ticket, etc., are non refundable.
It is AFTA’s view that all charges related to the transportation of the passenger are refundable when a passenger does not travel on a non refundable ticket.
The matter has been discussed with the ACCC who advise that it is in fact a matter for State Consumer Affairs offices.
It is therefore AFTA’s recommendation to all members that should situations such as those that have been outlined in this note arise they should refer their passenger immediately to the Department of Consumer Affairs in their State of residence and request the department to immediately initiate an investigation in order for the passenger to receive the appropriate refund.
Graham Muldoon
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