Oneworld has updated its ticketing policy, eliminating interline benefits for customers who've booked multiple legs of their journey on separate tickets.
Previously, connecting Oneworld passengers were entitled to have their baggage checked through to their final destination. Under the new ruling, this benefit is no longer an entitlement and will be left to the discretion of the operating carrier.
Passengers may therefore be required to retrieve baggage at their connection airport, before clearing immigration and re-checking their bags with the second Oneworld member airline.
In addition, passengers are no longer afforded the same protection in the event of a flight delay or cancellation. Previously, in the event of a flight disruption, the operating carrier would bare the responsibility and provide the appropriate compensation. However, under the new ruling, passengers that run into trouble will be required to handle matters themselves without the support of the airline.
The updated policy only affects passengers that have booked their flights on separate itineraries. For those that have purchased their flights on a single ticket, the standard rules will apply with baggage checked through to their final destination, as well as full protection in the event of any flight disruption.
The controversial update seems to go against the principles of a global aviation alliance – to create and offer a seamless travel experience for customers flying with member airlines.
For more information, visit oneworld.com
Clement Huang
