The Consumers and Users Association (OCU) condemned Iberia, Iberia Express, Air Europa, Iberojet, Plus Ultra, Volotea, Wamos Air and World2fly before the Consumption Headquarters in Catalonia, Balearic Islands and Madrid. Cash payments are not accepted for services provided on board.
According to the OCU’s press release, the General Law on Defense of Consumers and Users has been amended to consider refusal to pay cash as a means of payment a violation in consumer matters. This change took effect in May 2022.
From the OCU, they also consider that there are no longer health reasons to justify limiting the use of cash in a situation where there is a particular vulnerability to the consumer.
OCU agrees to continue this payment method obligation. “contrary to applicable regulations and good business practices”Therefore, in October 2022, these eight Spanish airlines were asked to cancel this policy, but received no response.
It has therefore now reported this violation to the consumer authorities so that they can initiate disciplinary proceedings and, where appropriate, impose legally established fines. Between 150 and 100,000 euros.
could be considered a violation severe and therefore apply the maximum punishmentIf the competent authority considers that the needs of consumers inside the aircraft cannot be met in any other way, the organization stresses.