The Minister for Fair Trading Anthony Roberts has urged consumers whose Tiger Airways flights have been cancelled and those with future bookings with the airline to stay informed and carefully consider their options.

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) has grounded Tiger Airways flights from Saturday 2 July for five working days.

Mr Roberts said consumers who booked flights during this period would obviously be inconvenienced by the disruption to their travel plans.

“Some may already be out of pocket as a consequence of having to make alternative arrangements,” he said.

“It is unclear how long the airline will be grounded and the uncertainty is a factor for people with flights booked in coming weeks.”

The Minister said affected consumers should ensure they are informed about their rights and options.

“Tiger Airways has indicated those customers whose flights have been cancelled will automatically be refunded their airfares,” he said.

“Customers can also request refunds for future flights through the Customer Service Portal on the Tiger website.

“Customers who paid by credit card may also consider contacting their credit provider to enquire about applying for a credit card chargeback.

“I understand Tiger Airways is currently accepting payments for flights next week. Customers should be aware there is no guarantee these flights will proceed should CASA’s concerns not be sufficiently addressed.”

Mr Roberts said NSW Fair Trading was working with all other Australian consumer protection regulators to determine exactly what arrangements Tiger Airways had in place for affected passengers.

“Regulators have asked Tiger Airways to provide by today advice on arrangements for refunds, including timing, as well as information about customer notification on cancelled flights,” he said.

“Tiger Airways has also been asked about ticket sales in advance of advice from CASA re the grounding.”

Mr Roberts encouraged NSW customers with any questions or concerns about their rights and responsibilities to contact NSW Fair Trading on 13 32 20.

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