Be wary of no-frills airlines
Mar 15, 2004, 10:23
In its latest report, the consumer magazine "Holiday Which" warns consumers that they should be aware that no-frills airlines fly into far flung airports sometimes well away from the actual destination that the customer actually wants. There is also a lack of customer support, no bonding in place to protect the customer and prices advertised that don't include airport tax.
If things go wrong with your flight there is little help with refreshments or accommodation and anyone who cancels are unlikely to get a refund of departure taxes and charges.
Booking with a travel agent offers far more consumer protection because a travel agent will use a bonded airline that protects the customer if anything goes wrong. Consumers should also be aware that booking flights and accomodation themselves could leave themselves open to financial loss if there is a problem with either the flight or the accommodation. Package holidays booked through travel agents offer complete protection to the consumer should there be a problem and can be just as cheap as booking a holiday yourself as tour operators buy hotel rooms and other accommodation in bulk at discount prices.
In addition, a travel agent normally has access to a wide range of flights and accommodation and can offer their customers better choice. A good travel agent can also save you time as it can be very time consuming organising your holiday yourself.
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