Under the weight of substantial debt in recent months, the Iceland-based low-cost airline Wow Air has official called ended all operations effective today.
This turn of events isn’t completely unexpected as the carrier was forced to rekindle discussions with Icelandair about a possible buyout, a long-time airline of Iceland, after Indigo Partners walked out on a potential capital investment in Wow.
Passengers who are currently booked on Wow flights are encouraged to reach out to other air carriers to get to their next destination. Some airlines may offer flights at a reduced rate, so-called rescue fares, in light of the circumstances. Wow stated that, “information on those airlines will be published, when it becomes available.”
Passengers whose ticket was paid with a credit card are advised to contact their credit card company to check whether a refund of the ticket cost will be issued.
Passengers who bought their ticket from a European travel agent (within the European Economic Area) as a part of a package tour (a package which includes flights and accommodation or other services) are protected by the Package Travel Directive. Those passengers are advised to contact their travel agent to arrange an alternative flight.
Passengers who may have bought travel protection, or those passengers whose credit card terms may include such protection, may be entitled to claim compensation and assistance due to delays or travel disruption. However, such compensation is often limited.
Passengers may also be entitled to compensation from Wow Air, including in accordance with European regulation on Air Passenger Rights. In case of a bankruptcy, claims should be filed to the administrator / liquidator.
The announcement will be published and continuously updated on the following websites:
– Icelandic Transport Authority: www.samgongustofa.is / www.icetra.is
– Keflavik Airport: www.isavia.is/en
– WOW AIR: www.wowair.com
– Posted at all relevant airports
General information about passenger rights can be found atwww.icetra.is
