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Travel Troubleshooter: American Airlines Downgrades Passenger, Then Refuses A Refund
Q: I booked a business class seat for my American Airlines flight from St. Thomas to Charlotte, North Carolina. But 45 minutes before boarding, a gate agent told me that my seat was broken, and I'd have to move to the main cabin. They promised a refund for the fare difference, plus a $500 inconvenience fee. Another agent printed a new boarding ...Read more
Travel Troubleshooter: Avis Charges Nonsmoker A Fee For Heavy Smoke Smell In Rental
Q: I rented a car from Avis for a quick 7-hour trip between California airports. I returned the vehicle clean with no odors or damage. A week later, I received a $450 cleaning fee for a "heavy smoke smell," even though neither I nor my wife smoke. The company's "proof" included photos of dust and a form that was dated for three days after my ...Read more
Travel Troubleshooter: Turo Claims Renter Damaged A Car That Was Muddy To Begin With
Q: I rented a car through Turo in Edmonton, Canada, and returned it in the same condition, but the host accused me of causing a scratch. The car was covered in mud when I picked it up, making it impossible to inspect for existing damage. At drop-off, it was dark and snowy, and my phone was dying, so my photos were too dim to prove anything.
The...Read more








