A Ryanair passenger from Devon was denied a £240 refund after a flight from Bristol to Dublin was diverted to Manchester during Storm Amy last October. The aircraft made two unsuccessful landing attempts in Dublin before rerouting, leaving passengers confined onboard for six hours.
Upon disembarking at midnight, Ryanair failed to provide complimentary refreshments, taxis, or accommodation. The passenger submitted a £240 claim for taxi and hotel expenses, but the airline rejected it, claiming the plane had landed in Dublin.
Two weeks later, Ryanair contacted the passenger, suggesting they had been rebooked onto a flight from Manchester to Dublin that supposedly departed while they remained onboard. The airline said the claim was invalid due to failure to board the replacement flight, but provided no evidence of its existence.
Following press enquiries, Ryanair admitted it had 'incorrectly advised' the passenger and agreed to refund the flight cost and reimburse the hotel and taxi expenses. The airline also backtracked on its claim that requirements to provide basic provisions were met because its bar was open, conceding it was a paid service.
Ryanair said other passengers on the disrupted flight can similarly claim back costs via its online portal.
