The problem, e.g., that it takes too long to issue refunds, is not fixable right now. It goes without saying that the refund of an unused ticket where the flight is cancelled ought to be fully automated and not require individualized attention in some -- now understaffed -- back office. But, it is too late for that and now is not the time for air carriers to invest.

Passengers ought to leave the rhetoric behind and simply request the refund and then pursue the chargeback. It is not a fault issue, simply a factual circumstance.