Both aviation and COVID-19 cross international borders. Government action has been piecemeal and half-hearted. Restrictions by any of a number of governments leave travellers isolated. The UK Government must work with airlines and other governments to create a fund to reimburse passengers.
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Some companies are refusing to refund passengers unable to fly due to restrictions imposed by various governments. They do offer ticket(s) of similar value, valid for 12 months.
Passengers do not know if they will be able to travel again within 12 months, particularly if they live overseas. These airlines rake money in from ticket sales, catering, seat allocation and baggage rates. They suggest trying to claim on your travel insurance but not all policies are paying out.