Financially troubled Icelandic airline Wow Air has ceased all operations as of this morning (Thursday March 28, 2019). The airline was not able to come up with investors after all the recent turmoil.
Passengers that hold tickets on Wow Air should contact their travel agent or dispute the credit card transaction(s) as the purchased flight(s) won’t take place.
You can access Wow’s Travel Alert page here:
End of Operation of WOW AIR
Information for WOW AIR passengers
WOW AIR has ceased operation. All WOW AIR flights have been cancelled.
How will I reach my destination?
Passengers are advised to check available flights with other airlines.
Some airlines may offer flights at a reduced rate, so-called rescue fares, in light of the circumstances. Information on those airlines will be published, when it becomes available.
What are my rights?
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.
Where can I get up-to-date information?
This 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
Conclusion
This shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone who has been following the prolonged death spiral of Wow Air since late last year. There were several investors who initially were showing interest in putting up some capital but apparently everything fell apart during the due diligence process.
There have been quite a few airline bankruptcies in Europe over the past couple of years including Airberlin, Monarch and Primera. Let’s hope that there are no further casualties.
Remember to always pay using a credit card in order to be covered in case of bankruptcy.
