Originally Posted by
Random50
Yes, I do realise it’s almost the entire industry that’s behaving this way. That’s why we have no realistic choice but to accept. Doesn’t make it right on their part. Airlines are close to being utilities, but they aren’t regulated with anywhere near that level of consumer protection.
Given the severity of the penalty, I don’t know why they aren’t customer friendly enough to at least send an automated email and/or phone call saying “Don’t miss your flight!” All I got from them was one email pitching the verifly app and another informational on entry requirements. Both received about a week before the flight, and neither containing the date.
I don’t think it would be possible to regulate airlines like utilities. The issue of which set of regulations would apply would make it impractical. If you just look at EU261 and how it applies to non EU airlines in only one direction you can see the difficulty, and that’s before you consider the issue of enforcement.
If you do continue to use BA you’ll come to realise that IT is not their strong suit, and what you consider a simple task would be anything but that for them to implement. Also, and I appreciate you’re frustrated by this situation, they do send confirmation details by email, encourage use of the app (assuming you can login), and offer a variety of email client specific calendar reminders in MMB. I really don’t think in terms of missing the flight they’re in any way at fault.
I think the cancellation of the return portion of the ticket is harsh in your circumstances, but again I understand why airlines do this given the somewhat crazy nature of airfares.