May 2004

Firm acts after airline collapse

The collapse of Birmingham-based airline Duo is a reminder of how vulnerable passengers can be when they book directly via the internet.

But Leamington-based Travel Management Group has announced a no-quibble money-back refund for all passengers who had booked through their holiday division, TMG Leisure, and paid for Duo flights which will not now operate.

TMG managing director George Dick said: "One of the anomalies of the rulings surrounding customer protection schemes for travellers who pay in advance for flights and associated arrangements is that airlines have never been required to offer money-back guarantees in the event of their ceasing to trade.  This applies to all 'no frills' airlines as well as the  larger scheduled operators.  

TMG believes it has acted quickly to reassure its customers their money is safe as a result of booking through TMG Leisure."

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