The recent devastating earthquake in Morocco has not only left a trail of destruction but also triggered a response from the travel industry. French tour operators, led by the Union of French Tour Operators (Seto), are advocating for “commercial flexibility” for travelers affected by the earthquake. Here’s the latest on the situation:
Seto’s Call for Commercial Flexibility
Seto, the union representing major French tour operators, has issued recommendations for accommodating travelers who may not wish to proceed with their plans in light of the local situation caused by the earthquake. Until September 11, Seto advises adopting the utmost commercial flexibility for affected customers. This flexibility may include options such as deferrals and credits. Importantly, Seto emphasizes that customers have the right to refuse these alternatives and may request a refund if they prefer. The union has committed to updating its recommendation based on the evolving situation.
Air France, one of the prominent carriers serving Morocco, has also taken steps to assist affected travelers. The airline has implemented “commercial measures” for customers with flights scheduled to or from Morocco in the coming days. These measures allow passengers to modify or postpone their trips free of charge. Air France assures travelers that all its flights to and from Moroccan cities like Marrakech, Casablanca, and Rabat are operating normally. Furthermore, the airline is coordinating with French and Moroccan authorities to potentially add extra flights or deploy larger aircraft to accommodate passenger needs in the coming days.
As the situation in Morocco continues to evolve, Seto has extended its “commercial flexibility” recommendations. Until September 18, the union advises providing flexibility to customers who choose not to proceed with their travel plans due to the local situation resulting from the earthquake. Customers retain the right to refuse deferrals or credits and opt for a refund instead.
Air France is not alone in offering flexibility to travelers affected by the earthquake. Royal Air Maroc, the Moroccan national carrier, is also allowing passengers with reservations for flights scheduled until September 23 to modify or postpone their trips free of charge until September 17. Transavia France, part of the Air France group, permits travelers to reschedule trips planned between September 9 and 16, 2023, to a later date, specifically until March 30, 2024, without modification fees, albeit with potential price differences depending on the period.
It’s worth noting that airlines have maintained all their flights to and from Moroccan airports. Fortunately, the country’s airport infrastructure remained unaffected by the earthquake, which struck 77 kilometers southwest of the popular tourist city of Marrakech on the night of September 8 to 9.
