Russia's Aeroflot receives thousands of requests to refund airfare

Russian flagship carrier Aeroflot has received several thousands of requests to refund involuntarily canceled flights, the airline’s spokesman Mikhail Demin told TASS.

The company is also rebooking flights for the urgent return of citizens to their homeland, he said.

"Currently, the company is processing several thousands of requests to refund canceled flights. We are making immediate return of funds. At the same time, our contact center and offices are busy rebooking tickets for urgent return of citizens from the countries with which regular flight connection has been suspended," Demin said.

He recalled that in coming days Aeroflot will arrange special flights for the return of people to their homeland.

"Changing the date and time of departure is made without a passenger’s request and is sent by e-mail. We ask passengers to check their booking status by themselves," Demin added.

On March 16, another ruling to limit air traffic came into force amid the spread of coronavirus. Airlines will be able to operate flights only to the capitals of the EU member states, as well as to London, Geneva and Oslo from terminal F of the Sheremetyevo airport. Airlines can only carry out charter flights from European cities for the return of passengers to their homeland.

Over the past 45 days, the number of flights to China, South Korea and Iran has been limited due to the spread of coronavirus. Airlines also reduce flights to some destinations due to reduced demand or the decision of the authorities of several countries to close the entrance.