British Airways customers say they are struggling to get a refund for cancelled flights and feel forced to take vouchers instead.

Holidaymakers who have had their flights cancelled due to the ongoing pandemic have hit out at British Airways for failing to give them refunds, making the process difficult or offering them vouchers instead.

Consumer champion Which? Has said that some airlines are openly breaking the law by delaying refunds for cancelled trips or removing customers’ refund rights altogether.

Under EU Regulation 261, if you’re due to fly with an airline based in the UK or EU, or are flying from an airport in the UK or EU, you’re protected if your flight is cancelled, and should be refunded within fourteen days.

Frustrated customers have taken to social media to protest the offer of a voucher.

Rosemary Wisker, who had booked a return flight for the 28th April from London Heathrow to JFK wrote: “You have cancelled my flight, there’s no option online for a refund, only a voucher. I’m entitled to a refund. Your numbers just hang up - no one there.”

Another, Steve Denny, said he had been trying to call BA “continually for the last month” but the call keeps getting terminated. He wrote: “I would like a refund please for my flight, I really don't want a voucher because prices will increase”.

Other airlines have also failed to refund some passengers.

Which? has received thousands of complaints and requests for help from people struggling to secure a refund for their cancelled travel.

Up to £7 billion in payments made by UK customers – many who may also be struggling financially due to the impact of the pandemic – are affected, according to the travel industry’s own estimates.