One of the many industries that has been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic has been the aviation industry. Countries have closed their borders, flights have been cancelled and travellers’ holiday plans have been ruined.

Luckily, many airlines have been offering support to passengers in the form of refunds, extensions on tickets or monetary vouchers to book other flights at later dates.

Offering extra support to customers affected by COVID-19, Dubai-based airline Emirates now has “two new options” for passengers.

The airline has extended the validity of tickets up to 24 months after a booking was made, and has also made the option of a travel voucher available.

Extending your ticket

For this option tickets will be extended for up to 24 months from the original book date. Even better fare differences won’t apply.

“The fare amount you paid for your original booking will be accepted for any flight to the same destination/region at any time with no fees during this period,” the Emirates website states.

From your end, there’s nothing you need to do apart from rescheduling your flight when you want to travel.

Travel voucher option

If you don’t want to extend your booking, customers are able to opt for a travel voucher instead. The amount of the voucher will be equal to the original booking made.

With the travel voucher given you are able to use it for “other products and services”. It can be used as credit for future trips, or use it for other Emirates services.

Change of destination

Passengers are able to change their travel destinations with both options on offer. “It will be valid for one year from the date it is issued and can be extended for another year,” the website states.

“The fare you paid will be accepted for any flight to the same destination or within the same region. For example, if your original booking was for London, you can rebook it for Amsterdam at no extra charges.”

Emirates regions include:

  • Africa
  • Australasia
  • Europe
  • the Far East
  • the Gulf, Middle East and Iran
  • Indian Ocean Islands
  • North America
  • South America
  • West Asia.

Additionally, there are no change fees for either options, just ensure to rebook within the 24-month timeline.

If you’re not able to travel within the timeframe given, customers will need to apply for a refund. For more information visit the Emirates website.

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Images: Instagram