Flight cancellations by Green Airlines: German Airways finally reimburses affected travellers after drawn-out legal battle
In the summer of 2021, Green Airlines cancelled a large number of flights. Not only did this ruin travellers' holiday plans, but they were also told they could kiss their money goodbye. After a long legal battle, there is good news: the affected passengers finally have their money back. This was made possible by the European Consumer Centre (ECC) and attorneys Caspar Janssens and Zoë Poortvliet, who took the matter to court on behalf of the travellers.
So what happened?
Green Airlines cancelled almost all flights from Eelde airport for no apparent reason, but when travellers requested refunds and compensation, the airline refused to pay. Green Airlines claimed that, as an intermediary, it was not responsible for operating the flights. As a result, it was not responsible for refunding tickets or paying out compensation either.
The ECC contacted Green Airlines to mediate between the aggrieved travellers and the airline. To our surprise, it was German Airways that responded. German Airways confirmed that Green Airlines was only an intermediary and said that German Airways was responsible for operating the flights. Under European rules, this made German Airways responsible for refunding and compensating passengers.
For a long time, it seemed that ECC and German Airways would find a solution together. In September 2022, the airline even made payment proposals, but when the participants accepted, all communication stopped. In December 2022, German Airways suddenly announced that it would not pay, claiming it had not been responsible for operating the flights after all. Still with us?
To court
The ECC disagreed with German Airways' position and, with the deadline for starting a court case approaching, asked attorney Caspar Janssens for help. Despite trying once more to find a solution with German Airways, Janssens failed and launched a class action lawsuit on behalf of 109 travellers in 2023.
Travellers get their money back
In November 2024, the court ruled that German Airways was responsible for operating the flights and would therefore have to repay the travellers the amount owed, increased with statutory interest. After years of uncertainty and frustration, the affected travellers finally received the compensation they were entitled to.
The importance of good legal aid
This case shows exactly why it is so important to stand up for your rights and that patience does really pay off. Perseverance and good legal support can make all the difference. ECC Netherlands helps consumers who have problems involving foreign businesses. Together with experts, such as attorney Caspar Janssens and Zoë Poortvliet, we ensure that consumers get what they are entitled to. Please note that their website is in Dutch.
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