Insurance, easyJet and AMEX Declined

ckum9

I was due to fly with easyJet on the 18 March. However, the UK government imposed travel restrictions due to COVID-19. Therefore I could not fly out on this date. However, easyJet continued to fly the flight regardless. I obviously did not turn up. 

My insurance company (Axa through my AMEX Platinum) are refusing to pay out as they believe the CMA guidance that easyJet should offer me a refund as they didn't provide the 'goods'. easyJet declined this and stated that it was my decision not to fly. 

I'm at an impasse now as easyJet are refusing to pay, my AMEX chargeback failed and my insurance company is refusing to pay out. Can anyone provide any guidance in this scenario? 

bagand96

easyJet's view is that they operated the flight so the service was available and you chose not to use it, hence no refund.  That's in line with most airlines.  A chargeback or Section 75 claim with your credit card will fail for the same reason.  They only work when the supplier fails to provide the goods or services.

It's not the first time I've seen insurance companies trying to hide behind the CMA statement.  In my view they are fobbing you off and hiding behind that.  The CMA statement is just their view and there's no government policy saying airlines must refund customers in this scenario.  It would normally be a travel insurance claim.