Dear Editor,
I wish to bring to your attention that the regional low-cost carrier REDjet has not yet reimbursed their passengers who purchased tickets with their airline. REDjet halted their services since March 16, 2012. Passengers whose money for their tickets needed to be reimbursed were informed via public releases that they had to apply for their refunds. Upon doing so within the timeframe given, I was told upon submission of our forms that REDjet will call me within three weeks to inform me about the arrangements for the refund. but to no avail.
My concern is the disappointing royal runaround which an officer from the Ministry of Public Works and Communication, who is responsible for the refunds, has been giving me with regard to the progress of the reimbursement as of this date. The very popular response from the officer who answers the telephone at the ministry is: “The person dealing with the reimbursement is currently in a meeting with his superior which will last for a while.” When asked if there is anyone else who can assist with the matter, the answer is “No.” He also refuses to disclose his name. This response was given in every instance when I called the Ministry of Public Works and Communication as opposed to an isolated instance.
I wish to call upon the officials who are responsible for this issue – REDjet or the Ministry of Public Works and Communication, to please come forward and let the passengers know what is happening. We do not necessarily need a promise but we would like to know what progress has been made and what has been done thus far. It has been five months and eight days since this airline has halted its services and I think it is way beyond the timeframe for my money to be refunded. I would like to have my money back.
It is my regret that the airline fell into bankruptcy and insolvency and was not given the “aero-political support” needed, but I do hope that they will take to the regional skies and be as successful as they want to be very soon. REDjet’s services were highly appreciated by myself, family and friends whom I enthusiastically encouraged to use the airline.
Yours faithfully,
(Name and address provided)
Editor’s note
We are sending a copy of this letter to Minister of Works Robeson Benn for any comment he might wish to make.