Stornoabschläge

Stornoabschläge, also known as "storno fees" in English, are charges imposed by airlines, hotels, and other travel service providers when a customer cancels or changes a booking. The term "storno" is German for "cancellation."

The purpose of stornoabschläge is to compensate for the costs incurred by the service provider due to the cancellation or change. These costs can include lost revenue, additional work for staff, and potential damage to the company's reputation. The fees are typically a percentage of the total booking value and can vary significantly depending on the time of cancellation and the type of service.

For example, an airline might charge a higher stornoabschlag if a flight is canceled close to departure, as this results in more significant costs. Similarly, a hotel might charge a higher fee if a reservation is canceled within a short period of arrival.

Stornoabschläge are often outlined in the booking conditions or terms and conditions of the service provider. It is essential for customers to review these details before making a booking to understand the implications of canceling or changing a reservation.

In some cases, stornoabschläge can be waived or reduced if the cancellation is due to circumstances beyond the customer's control, such as illness or natural disasters. However, these exceptions are not always straightforward, and customers may need to provide proof of the circumstances.

The use of stornoabschläge has been a subject of debate, with some arguing that they can lead to overbooking and other practices that prioritize the interests of service providers over customers. Others contend that they help to manage the risks associated with booking cancellations and changes.