Flybe passengers warned of scammers 'jumping on bandwagon' after airline collapses

5 March 2020, 10:25

Flybe passengers have been warned their misery may continue as scammers "jumping on the bandwagon" are targeting customers seeking a refund.

The largest regional airline in Europe collapsed into administration on Thursday, leaving passengers and staff stuck across the continent.

But the Citizens Advice Bureau has warned about the risk of scams as passengers plan alternative routes.

Senior customer expert Jab Carton said: "Unfortunately we've found that, in these situations, scammers quickly jump on the bandwagon. If you're a Flybe customer and you're contacted by someone offering to act for you to recover your money it's more than likely to be a scam.

"Flybe customers who bought tickets directly from the company won't be protected by the ATOL scheme.

"However, if you went through a travel agent or other third party you may be covered.

"Some people may be able to get their money back if they paid by credit card.

"If people have accommodation booked, they should check the terms and conditions to see if they can get a refund.

"If they can afford to pay for another flight, it's also worth checking if they can alter the dates."

Stranded passengers have been advised to make their own way home.

The Civil Aviation Authority has said there will be no repatriation flights. This is because the government did not commission this unlike when airlines Monarch and Thomas Cook failed.

A government spokesman said it has asked coach and train operators to accept Flybe tickets and offer reduced fares.