On the 5th of March, UK airline Flybe went into administration, after a bid for fresh financial support failed in addition to lack of demand for air travel due to the outbreak of the coronavirus.
The Civil Aviation Authority released a statement in the wake of the news saying: "All Flybe flights, and those operated by Stobart Air, are cancelled. Therefore, please do not go to the airport as your flight will not be operating. The UK Civil Aviation Authority will provide advice and information to consumers, so please check our website and Twitter feed @UK_CAA for more information.
What happens next?
Flybe customers who bought tickets directly from the company will not be protected by the ATOL scheme. However, if you went through a travel agent or other third party you might be covered. Some people may be able to get their money back if they paid by credit card or with some debit cards.
Will I lose my flight booking?
Unfortunately, yes. The collapse of an airline means planes are grounded and services are cancelled.
Will the cost of that flight be refunded?
As many Flybe travellers purchased flight tickets separately and not as part of a package holiday, a refund is highly unlikely. If you purchased the tickets with a credit card, you would have to rely on a refund from the credit or debit card provider, or possibly by claiming from your travel insurance.
If you paid more than £100 on flights directly with the firm on a credit card, you should be able to claim a refund from their card provider. This is known as section 75 protection and is part of the Consumer Credit Act.
For cheaper purchases, or if a debit card was used, then customers can try claiming from the card provider under the chargeback system, although this is not a legal right and is not always successful.
How likely is my insurer to cover the cost of flights and accommodation?
This will depend on the type of travel insurance policy that has been purchased. Please check your travel insurance policy for more information.
