WOW AIR CESSATION OF SERVICE
April 15, 2019
On March 28, 2019, Iceland carrier WOW Air announced the cessation of operations and the immediate cancellation of service, leaving thousands of passengers stranded across the globe. The carrier has recommended affected passengers to check available flights with other airlines, and noted that some airlines may offer “rescue” fares at a reduced rate. Passengers have been instructed to direct refund requests to their credit card company. Passengers who purchased a ticket from a European travel agent (within the European Economic Area) as a part of a package tour are protected by the Package Travel Directive. Passengers who purchased a ticket directly from the carrier may also be entitled to compensation in accordance with the European regulation on Air Passenger Rights. We note that there are currently no DOT requirements for other carriers to assist passengers affected by another carrier’s cessation of service.
If you have any questions, please contact Evelyn Sahr (esahr@eckertseamans.com or 202-659-6622); Drew Derco (dderco@eckertseamans.com or 202-659-6665), or Alexander Matthews (amatthews@eckertseamans.com or 202-659-6633).