Hank Investigates: Ticket Refunds

This couple planned and paid for a Christmas getaway to Las Vegas, but now, they want to stay home for the holidays.

Julie and Chris, Apprehensive Vacationers
"It's terrifying. There's new developments every hour on the news. We don't know what's going to happen Christmas week."

But when they asked for refunds from their airlines, they were told, no way.

Julie and Chris
"They said you have a non-refundable ticket and we cannot give you your money back."

In fact, travel agents told us, now they're flooded with refund requests.

Kurt Galatas, Travel Agent
"Not many people want to board, they're just shell shocked."

But the problem is, airline companies are not offering blanket refunds. They say if there's a refund restriction on your ticket, it's still in effect. Experts say, they're right.

Terry Trippler, Onetravel.com
"That's a rule, that's a contract carriage."

Now, would be passengers don't want to fly but don't want to lose money.

There is hope- the government bailout. In Washington yesterday, airline industry representatives met with transportation officials and asked for a $24 billion infusion of cash to keep the industry flying. Part of those funds, some experts think, should cover ticket refunds.

Terry Trippler
"It's a whole new ball game. We've got to treat their airlines differently. We've got to treat security differently. We can do this and make this work."

As airline companies balance finances with traveler's fear, many of the flying public are asking them to have a heart.

Julie and Chris
"I don't think it's fair what they are doing to us right now."

This is all about money. The airlines have yours, and they don't want to give it back. So, for now the thing to do is complain. Call your airline, because carriers are telling us, they will review requests for refunds on a case by case basis. The state attorney general's office is also looking into the refund situation, and as always, things may change.