UK drops probe into British Airways, Ryanair covid refunds

The UK ended a probe into British Airways and Ryanair Holdings Plc over their refusal to reimburse customers who were barred from flying because of ever-changing pandemic travel rules. The Competition and Markets Authority decided to close the investigation because the law isn’t clear enough about a right to a refund “in these unusual circumstances,” according to a statement Thursday. Ryanair welcomed the decision. The probe was launched in June to determine whether the airlines broke consumer laws by failing to offer customers their money back when Covid-19 rules made it illegal for them to fly. BA instead offered ticket holders vouchers or a different flight, while discounter Ryanair opted for rebooking, the CMA said. “We strongly believe people who are legally prevented from taking flights due to lockdown laws should be offered a full refund,” CMA Chief Executive Officer Andrea Coscelli said in a statement. However, “we have concluded that the length of time that would be required to take this case through the courts, and the uncertain outcome, can no longer justify the further expense of public money.”<br/>