What can I claim for when a flight is cancelled?

TamsinEvans

Hi I've read some similar posts about this topic, but still not quite sure what my options are:

I booked a set of 5 multi city flights for my father via Travelup. One leg (Madrid Santiago) due to depart on 4th November was cancelled on 19th October. Travelup informed me by phone that the operator, Iberia, had reinstated the flight on 21st October and would reissue the ticket by the 24th. On the 25th, Travelup told me by phone that Iberia were requesting until the 29th to reissue the ticket but the flight would be reinstated. On the 29th October, I have a written communication from Travelup saying the flight was cancelled and I could look for an alternative flight or apply for a refund.

The flight LA5701 was a Latam flight operated by Iberia. There were alternative Iberia flight with availability, but Travelup informed me the terms of the agreement they had with Iberia meant any alternative flight had to be the same class and travelling the same route as my original ticket. The alternative flights had either only business availability or were flying via different cities. Travelup advised waiting two days until the correct airline staff were available to confirm that there were no alternative flight options, but at this stage, 3 days before departure for a substantial trip, I needed clarity for my father. I therefore cancelled the entire set of flights and rebooked with a different agent.

I have requested a full refund for the original ticket and believe I will get it (in 6-8 weeks). However, the new ticket I had to book was at 3 days' notice and cost £460 more than the original ticket.

Do I have any chance of compensation for this extra expense or is this a lesson well learned? Travelup say it's not up to them to seek compensation. Latam tell me it's Travelup and Iberia refuse to speak to me. Is there are regulatory body I could seek help from?

Thanks in advance!
Tamsin