Back in December I was looking at a somewhat complicated award booking that included mixed cabin, flights with BA and a longish layover in London. I couldn't quite price the exact flights in the app, and the phone agent suggested it might be easier to book what I could and then call in to amend one of the segments (there was award availability for both alternatives). After I did that and call again, I was met with a blank stare (if ever possible over the phone) and informed that agents can't see or make changes to partner award segments. Realising the first agent just told me what I wanted to hear to get me off the phone, I cancelled the booking within 30 minutes of ticketing. After a few days, I received the Avios and was credited taxes, short of $25 cancellation fee.
After speaking to an agent via chat, I submitted a complaint, which has now gone without resolution for 4 months. I eventually got around to this recently and submitted a chargeback, which Qatar again refused (though Amex later comped).
Now, arguably, I wasn't aware that Qatar had separate T&Cs for award flights with no 24-hour rule, but my understanding is that, since this was a US-bound flight, USDOT regulations still apply and cancellations within 24 hours should bear no penalty, award or not?
After speaking to an agent via chat, I submitted a complaint, which has now gone without resolution for 4 months. I eventually got around to this recently and submitted a chargeback, which Qatar again refused (though Amex later comped).
Now, arguably, I wasn't aware that Qatar had separate T&Cs for award flights with no 24-hour rule, but my understanding is that, since this was a US-bound flight, USDOT regulations still apply and cancellations within 24 hours should bear no penalty, award or not?