Jet Airways closure plays on travellers’ minds

Travellers are seeking a guarantee of refund from travel agents in the event of their chosen airline folding up before the trip, leaving operators struggling to find a way to restore their clients’ faith in them.

The suspension of operation by Jet Airways in April has triggered panic among travellers and recent reports of some airlines suffering losses have added to the fear, tour operators said.

An operator in Calcutta said one of his clients wanted to book more than 100 seats for guests who will attend his daughter’s wedding in Thailand in February.

“The client wants a guarantee that the money will be refunded if the airline folds up before the wedding. Earlier, such questions would not arise. He is yet to decide on the bookings because I can’t give him the guarantee,” the tour operator said.