IndoJet passengers refund
Issue Date: - Thursday, 24 September 2009
Consumer Protection has moved to clarify the rights of passengers booked on IndoJet, which suspended flying operations at the end of June.
Commissioner for Consumer Protection Anne Driscoll said she is aware of considerable confusion about the rights of passengers to refunds for suspended flights.
IndoJet stopped services from Perth to Bali when the company from which it leased three Boeing-737 aircraft, OzJet, went into administration in the middle of the year.
Initially, IndoJet said it would find other aircraft to lease and would be back in business in six weeks. Its website now advises that services will not be resumed before the end of November.
“Consumer Protection is in ongoing discussions with IndoJet to clarify the status of bookings and money received for flights,” Ms Driscoll said.
“Passengers who are experiencing delay or difficulty in obtaining a refund should contact Consumer Protection for advice about their options.”
Furthermore, Consumer Protection is advising customers who paid for flights by credit card to approach their bank and request a refund via a chargeback arrangement if their flight departure date has passed. Chargeback claims are unlikely to be accepted until the scheduled flight has not been provided.
IndoJet has indicated that it has not accepted any new bookings since the suspension of its flights in June 2009 and Consumer Protection has continued to monitor the status of their website to ensure additional bookings are not taken until problems are solved.
“It would be prudent for customers, who booked Christmas holiday flights prior to the suspension of services, to weigh up their options carefully in deciding whether to continue with their existing bookings or make alternative flight arrangements for the holidays,” Ms Driscoll said.
Consumers are encouraged to register their details with Consumer Protection so that they can be kept updated with the on-going discussions with IndoJet.
Passengers with concerns about the refund of fares are invited to contact Consumer Protection on 1300 30 40 54 or email: consumer@commerce.wa.gov.au