# Finnair Changes Gift Voucher Compensation Policy Amid EC 261 Refund Delays

_Apr 9 12:18_

Tags: Finnair, EC 261/2004, EU, policy change, airline, loyalty program, service policy change

Finnair has agreed to stop using gift vouchers as primary compensation without passenger consent and faces court action for delaying refunds beyond the EU's 7-day requirement

## Summary

The Finnish Consumer Ombudsman has taken Finnair to the Market Court for unlawfully long delays in issuing refunds for cancelled flights under EU regulation EC 261/2004, which mandates refunds within 7 days. While the previous case regarding passenger rights violations is pending, Finnair has agreed to amend its unlawful gift voucher practices. Previously, Finnair issued standard compensation and reimbursed 'right to care' costs (meals/lodging) via gift vouchers without consumer consent. Under the new agreement, gift vouchers are no longer the primary method of compensation and require explicit consumer agreement. This follows high volumes of consumer inquiries regarding refund delays and customer service issues in 2025

## Why it matters

Affects Finnair loyalty members and route planners.

## Sources cited

- [LoyaltyLobby](https://loyaltylobby.com/2026/04/09/finnair-faces-second-market-court-lawsuit-over-unlawful-ec-261-2004-practices?omhide=true) — Finnair Faces Second Market Court Lawsuit Over Unlawful EC 261/2004 Practices

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