On April 29th, Airbnb announced that the company will be ending its coronavirus-era cancellation policy. As of the 31st of May, the company’s policy will no longer cover Covid-19 related circumstances as a reason for a refund for bookings made on or after this date. That includes cases where a guest or host is sick with Covid-19. According to Travel + Leisure, domestic reservations in South Korea will remain an exception.
Instead, the host’s cancellation policy will apply as usual to these bookings. Reservations made before the 31st of May, may still be eligible for a refund if they qualify under the policy. Airbnb announced that after consultation with medical advisors, as well as the community, the company feels the time is right for this kind of change.
As we’ve seen the heroic effort of health authorities and medical advancements around the globe, almost two thirds of the world’s population have received at least one dose of a vaccination against Covid-19.
Airbnb
Almost two thirds of active listings on Airbnb’s platform offer a moderate or flexible cancellation policy, which allow guests to cancel at least five days before check-in – and in some cases up to 24-hours before check-in – and still receive a full refund.
Airbnb provides guests with further information on finding the right cancellation policy for their stay on the company’s help center. A search filter for “Free Cancellation” allows guests to limit their search options solely to these types of flexible listings.
Many countries have now implemented living with Covid-19 plans, as it becomes part of our world.
Airbnb
The company expects to launch a custom-built guest travel insurance product offering, exclusive to Airbnb guests. The same team that brought the AirCover Host protection product to life is building the new guest insurance product in partnership with a reputable insurance carrier and will be available to guests in certain countries. The company announced that until this new product is available, guests can consider purchasing travel insurance outside of Airbnb.
