A Legal Article in the Philippine Context

I. Introduction

Airline tickets in the Philippines commonly include several components: the base fare, value-added tax where applicable, fuel surcharge or carrier-imposed surcharge, other airline charges, and government or airport-related fees. One of the most common charges paid by passengers is the terminal fee, also known in many contexts as the passenger service charge.

A frequent issue arises when a passenger pays for a ticket but does not actually take the flight. The passenger may have missed the flight, cancelled the trip, changed plans, been denied boarding, encountered an emergency, or simply left the ticket unused. In these situations, a passenger often asks:

Can I refund the terminal fee even if the ticket itself is non-refundable?

In the Philippine setting, the general answer is yes: a terminal fee or passenger service charge paid for unused travel should generally be refundable because the passenger did not use the airport terminal service for the covered flight. This is different from refunding the base fare, which depends on the fare rules, airline conditions, and applicable law.

This article explains the nature of terminal fees, why they are refundable when travel is unused, how a passenger may claim a refund, what documents may be required, what common problems arise, and what legal principles govern disputes.

II. What Is a Terminal Fee?

A terminal fee is a charge collected from departing passengers for the use of airport facilities and services. It is commonly associated with passenger processing and use of the airport terminal.

It may also be called:

Passenger service charge;
Airport terminal fee;
International passenger service charge;
Domestic passenger service charge;
Airport fee;
PSC;
Terminal charge.

Although passengers often think of it as part of the airline ticket, the terminal fee is not the same as the airline fare. It is an airport-related charge collected for the benefit of the airport authority or airport operator.

III. Purpose of the Terminal Fee

The terminal fee is generally imposed to support airport operations and passenger facilities.

It may help cover:

Terminal maintenance;
Passenger processing areas;
Security-related facilities;
Comfort rooms and waiting areas;
Passenger movement systems;
Airport utilities;
Administrative and operational costs;
General upkeep of airport terminals;
Airport development and service improvements.

The basic idea is that a departing passenger who uses the airport terminal contributes to the cost of maintaining and operating the passenger facilities.

IV. Terminal Fee as Distinguished from Airfare

The airfare is the amount paid to the airline for air transportation.

The terminal fee is a charge related to use of airport facilities.

This distinction matters because a ticket may be non-refundable as to fare, but the terminal fee may still be refundable if the passenger did not fly.

A passenger who did not use the airport service should not normally be charged for that unused service merely because the ticket fare is non-refundable.

V. Terminal Fee as Distinguished from Taxes

Passengers often refer to all extra charges as “taxes,” but not every amount included in a ticket is a tax.

A ticket may include:

Base fare;
VAT or percentage tax implications, depending on the transaction;
Fuel surcharge or airline surcharge;
Security fee;
Terminal fee or passenger service charge;
Other airport or regulatory charges.

A refund claim should identify the specific charge being claimed. The terminal fee is usually airport-related and should not be confused with the airline’s own charges.

VI. Meaning of Unused Airline Travel

Unused airline travel means the passenger did not actually use the flight service covered by the ticket.

This may happen because:

The passenger voluntarily cancelled the flight;
The passenger missed the flight;
The passenger was a no-show;
The airline cancelled the flight;
The flight was rescheduled and the passenger did not accept the new schedule;
The passenger was denied boarding;
The passenger was unable to travel due to illness, emergency, or documentation problems;
The passenger changed itinerary;
The passenger bought duplicate tickets;
The passenger abandoned the trip;
The passenger did not proceed after booking.

The reason for non-use may affect airfare refund rights, but the terminal fee is treated differently because the fee is tied to airport use.

VII. General Rule: Terminal Fee for Unused Travel Is Refundable

The general rule is that a passenger may claim a refund of the terminal fee if the passenger did not take the flight and therefore did not use the terminal service for that departure.

This is so even if:

The ticket fare is non-refundable;
The passenger was a no-show;
The passenger voluntarily cancelled;
The promo fare cannot be refunded;
The airline imposes penalties on the fare;
The ticket has expired under airline fare rules.

The reason is simple: the terminal fee is not payment for the airline seat. It is payment for an airport service connected with actual departure. If the passenger did not depart, the basis for retaining that fee may no longer exist.

VIII. Why Terminal Fee Refund Is Separate from Fare Refund

Airline tickets are often sold as one total amount. But legally and practically, the ticket price has components.

A non-refundable ticket usually means the base fare is not refundable or is refundable only under limited conditions. It does not necessarily mean that all government taxes, airport fees, and unused third-party charges are forfeited.

Thus, a passenger may receive:

No refund of the base fare;
Partial refund of taxes and fees;
Refund of terminal fee;
Refund of other unused charges, depending on rules;
Refund of full ticket price if the airline caused the cancellation and applicable rules allow.

The terminal fee refund is therefore a separate claim.

IX. Legal Nature of the Passenger’s Right to Refund

The passenger’s right to refund may be understood through several legal principles.

1. No Service, No Charge

If a fee is collected for a service that was not used, retention of the fee may be improper unless a valid rule allows it.

The terminal fee is connected to the use of the airport terminal. If the passenger did not travel, the service was not consumed for that flight.

2. Unjust Enrichment

Under civil law principles, no person should unjustly enrich himself at the expense of another.

If a passenger paid a terminal fee but did not use the terminal service, the continued retention of the fee may result in unjust enrichment.

3. Consumer Protection

Air passengers are consumers. They are entitled to fair dealing, transparency, and refund of amounts that are not properly retained.

4. Contract and Agency Principles

When airlines collect terminal fees as part of the ticket, they may be collecting amounts that are ultimately for airport authorities or operators. If the service is unused, the passenger should have a remedy to recover the amount through the airline or the proper collecting entity.

5. Public Utility and Common Carrier Principles

Airlines are common carriers and are subject to duties of diligence, fairness, and compliance with applicable passenger rights rules.

X. Common Situations Where Terminal Fee Refund May Be Claimed

1. Passenger Cancelled the Trip

If the passenger cancelled before departure, the fare refund depends on ticket rules. But the terminal fee should generally be refundable because the passenger did not use the airport service.

2. Passenger Was a No-Show

A no-show passenger may lose the fare depending on fare rules. However, the terminal fee should generally remain refundable because the passenger did not depart.

3. Passenger Missed the Flight

If the passenger missed the flight, the airline may apply no-show rules to the fare. But the terminal fee should generally be refundable if the passenger did not actually take the flight.

4. Airline Cancelled the Flight

If the airline cancelled the flight, the passenger may have broader rights, including refund, rebooking, rerouting, or other remedies depending on circumstances. The terminal fee should also be refunded if the passenger did not travel.

5. Flight Was Rescheduled

If the airline significantly changes the schedule and the passenger does not accept the change, the passenger may claim refund under applicable passenger rights rules and airline policy. Terminal fee refund should be included if unused.

6. Passenger Was Denied Boarding

If denied boarding results in unused travel, the passenger may have rights depending on the reason. If the terminal fee was paid but the passenger did not depart, it should generally be refundable.

7. Duplicate Booking

If a passenger accidentally bought two tickets for the same trip and used only one, the terminal fee on the unused ticket may be refundable.

8. Medical or Emergency Non-Travel

If the passenger could not travel due to illness, death in the family, or emergency, fare refund depends on airline policy and proof. The terminal fee should generally be refundable if the passenger did not fly.

XI. Domestic and International Terminal Fees

Terminal fees may apply to both domestic and international departures.

A. Domestic Terminal Fee

Domestic terminal fees are charged for domestic airport departures. In many booking systems, they may be included in the airline ticket.

If the passenger does not take the domestic flight, the domestic terminal fee included in the ticket may be refundable.

B. International Terminal Fee

International terminal fees are charged for international departures from Philippine airports. In many cases, the fee may be included in the ticket price, especially at major airports.

If the passenger does not take the international flight, the passenger may claim refund of the international passenger service charge, subject to procedure.

C. Airport-Specific Rules

Different airports may have different systems depending on the airport operator, airline collection arrangement, and whether the terminal fee was paid at the airport or included in the ticket.

The passenger should check the ticket breakdown and the applicable airport or airline process.

XII. Terminal Fee Paid at the Airport vs. Included in Ticket

The refund process may depend on how the terminal fee was paid.

1. Terminal Fee Included in the Ticket

This is common. The passenger pays one total amount to the airline or travel agency, and the terminal fee is embedded in the ticket.

In this case, the passenger usually files the refund request with:

The airline;
The travel agency or online booking platform, if the ticket was purchased through one;
The airline’s refund portal or customer service channel.

The airline may process the airport fee refund according to its internal and airport authority procedures.

2. Terminal Fee Paid Separately at the Airport

If the passenger paid terminal fee directly at the airport counter but did not travel, the refund may need to be requested from the airport authority, airport operator, or terminal fee counter, depending on the circumstances.

Proof of payment is important.

3. Ticket Purchased Through Travel Agency

If the passenger booked through a travel agency or online travel platform, the refund may need to pass through the agency. The airline may refer the passenger back to the issuing agent because the agent controls the ticket record or payment channel.

XIII. Who Should Process the Refund?

The proper entity depends on collection.

A. Airline

If the airline collected the terminal fee as part of the ticket, the airline is usually the practical first point of contact.

B. Travel Agency or Online Booking Platform

If the booking was issued through a travel agency, the passenger may need to claim through the agency. This is common because the agency handled payment and ticket issuance.

C. Airport Authority or Airport Operator

If the fee was paid directly to the airport or terminal operator, the refund may be processed by that entity.

D. Payment Processor

If refund is approved, the money may be returned through the original payment channel, such as credit card, debit card, e-wallet, bank transfer, travel fund, or agency account.

XIV. Documents Commonly Needed for Refund

A passenger claiming terminal fee refund should prepare:

Ticket number;
Booking reference or confirmation number;
Passenger name;
Flight number;
Travel date;
Route;
Proof of payment;
Official receipt or itinerary receipt;
Government-issued ID;
Boarding status or proof that flight was unused;
Cancellation confirmation, if any;
Credit card or payment details, if required;
Authorization letter, if someone else claims on behalf of the passenger;
Death certificate, medical certificate, or other supporting documents if claiming broader refund on special grounds.

For terminal fee refund alone, the most important documents are usually the ticket, payment proof, and proof that the passenger did not travel.

XV. Step-by-Step Procedure to Claim Terminal Fee Refund

Step 1: Check the Ticket Breakdown

Review the itinerary receipt or e-ticket. Look for charges such as:

Passenger service charge;
Terminal fee;
Airport fee;
PH passenger service charge;
International passenger service charge;
Domestic terminal fee;
Taxes and fees.

The code or description may vary by airline or booking system.

Step 2: Confirm That the Ticket Was Unused

Make sure the passenger did not take the flight. If the passenger took one segment but not another, identify which segment was unused.

Step 3: Identify Where the Ticket Was Purchased

Determine whether the ticket was bought from:

Airline website;
Airline ticket office;
Travel agency;
Online travel agency;
Corporate travel desk;
Airport counter.

This helps determine where to file.

Step 4: File the Refund Request

Use the airline’s refund form, customer service email, ticket office, mobile app, website, or agency process.

Clearly state that the claim is for refund of terminal fee/passenger service charge for unused travel, even if the fare is non-refundable.

Step 5: Attach Documents

Attach ticket, proof of payment, ID, and other relevant documents.

Step 6: Track the Request

Keep the reference number, email thread, screenshots, and dates of follow-up.

Step 7: Escalate if Needed

If the airline or agency refuses or delays without valid explanation, the passenger may escalate through customer relations, the airport authority, civil aviation regulator, consumer protection offices, or other appropriate dispute channels.

XVI. Sample Request for Terminal Fee Refund

A passenger may write:

Subject: Request for Refund of Terminal Fee / Passenger Service Charge for Unused Flight

I am requesting a refund of the terminal fee/passenger service charge paid for my unused flight.

Passenger Name: [Name] Booking Reference: [Reference] Ticket Number: [Ticket Number] Flight: [Flight Number] Route: [Origin-Destination] Travel Date: [Date]

I did not take the above flight. While I understand that fare refund may be subject to fare rules, I am requesting the refund of the terminal fee/passenger service charge because the airport terminal service for this flight was not used.

Attached are copies of my itinerary receipt, proof of payment, and identification.

Please process the refund to the original form of payment or advise the required procedure.

Thank you.

XVII. Time Limits for Claiming Refund

Airlines and airport authorities may impose administrative periods for refund claims. Ticket validity rules may also affect processing.

Passengers should file as soon as possible.

Delays can create problems because:

Ticket records may be archived;
Refund portals may close;
Travel agency access may expire;
Payment records may be harder to retrieve;
Airline policies may impose deadlines;
Accounting periods may have closed.

Even if the fare is no longer refundable, the passenger may still request refund of unused taxes and terminal fees, but prompt filing is best.

XVIII. Processing Time

Refund processing time varies.

It may depend on:

Airline;
Airport operator;
Travel agency;
Payment method;
Credit card issuer;
Whether ticket was domestic or international;
Whether the ticket was partially used;
Whether documents are complete;
Whether the claim includes only terminal fee or the entire ticket.

Credit card refunds may take additional time after airline approval because the bank or card issuer must post the reversal.

XIX. Administrative Fees and Deductions

A major issue is whether an airline or agency may impose a refund processing fee that consumes or reduces the terminal fee refund.

The answer depends on the nature of the fee, the contract, applicable regulations, and whether the deduction is reasonable and lawful.

Important distinctions:

A fare cancellation penalty may apply to the base fare.
A refund service fee may be charged by an agency or airline if validly disclosed and allowed.
But a terminal fee itself should not be treated as forfeited merely because the fare is non-refundable.
If the administrative fee is greater than the terminal fee, the passenger may effectively receive nothing, but this may be challenged if unfair, undisclosed, or contrary to passenger rights rules.

A passenger should ask for a breakdown of any deductions.

XX. Non-Refundable Tickets and Promo Fares

Airlines often sell non-refundable promo fares.

A non-refundable fare usually means:

The base fare cannot be refunded;
Rebooking may be limited;
No-show penalties may apply;
Airline surcharges may be non-refundable depending on rules.

However, a non-refundable fare should not automatically forfeit terminal fees and unused government or airport charges.

Thus, even for a promo ticket, the passenger may request a terminal fee refund.

XXI. No-Show Passengers

A no-show passenger is one who fails to appear for the flight or fails to board.

Airlines may impose no-show penalties, cancel onward segments, or deny fare refund depending on ticket rules.

But the terminal fee is different. If the passenger did not depart and did not use the airport terminal service for that departure, the passenger may claim the terminal fee.

A no-show is not the same as actual use of the terminal service for the flight.

XXII. Partially Used Tickets

A ticket may contain multiple segments.

Examples:

Manila to Cebu to Manila;
Manila to Singapore to Manila;
Davao to Manila to Hong Kong;
Connecting flights.

If some segments were used and others were not, the passenger may be entitled to refund of terminal fees corresponding only to unused departure segments.

Example:

A passenger used Manila-Cebu but did not use Cebu-Manila. The terminal fee for the used Manila departure is not refundable, but the terminal fee for the unused Cebu departure may be refundable if it was collected.

For international itineraries, the issue may depend on whether the Philippine terminal fee was collected for the Philippine departure and whether that departure was used.

XXIII. Connecting Flights and Transit Passengers

Terminal fee rules may differ for transit or connecting passengers.

Some passengers may be exempt from terminal fees if merely transiting and not leaving the airport or if within certain connection rules. Others may be charged depending on itinerary and airport procedure.

If a terminal fee was incorrectly charged to an exempt transit passenger, the passenger may claim a refund.

If the connecting segment was unused, the passenger should identify which terminal fee was charged for which departure.

XXIV. Overseas Filipino Workers and Exemptions

Certain passenger groups may be exempt from some travel-related charges under applicable rules, such as overseas Filipino workers in specific contexts.

If an exempt passenger was charged a terminal fee, the passenger may claim a refund by presenting proof of exemption.

Documents may include:

Valid overseas employment certificate;
OFW identification or proof of status;
Passport;
Ticket;
Receipt;
Other documents required by the airline or airport authority.

If the exempt passenger also did not travel, the refund may be based both on exemption and non-use.

XXV. Senior Citizens, Persons with Disability, and Other Discounts

Senior citizens and persons with disability may be entitled to legally mandated discounts and VAT exemptions on certain domestic passenger transport and related charges, subject to law and implementing rules.

However, terminal fee treatment may depend on the nature of the charge and applicable rules.

If a passenger was overcharged or denied a legally applicable discount, the passenger may seek refund or correction. If the travel was unused, the terminal fee refund issue is separate.

XXVI. Infants and Children

Infants and children may have different fare and fee rules.

If a terminal fee was collected for an infant or child who did not travel, a refund may be requested.

If the passenger category was exempt but charged by mistake, that may be another ground for refund.

XXVII. Denied Boarding

Denied boarding may be voluntary or involuntary.

A. Voluntary Denied Boarding

If the passenger voluntarily gives up the seat in exchange for compensation or rebooking, the terms of the agreement may determine what happens to the ticket and fees.

B. Involuntary Denied Boarding

If the airline denies boarding despite the passenger having a valid ticket and complying with requirements, the passenger may be entitled to remedies under air passenger rights rules.

If the passenger does not depart, the terminal fee should be refunded as part of the unused travel refund or related remedy.

XXVIII. Airline-Caused Cancellation

If the airline cancels the flight, the passenger’s rights are generally stronger than in a voluntary cancellation.

Possible remedies may include:

Full refund;
Rebooking;
Rerouting;
Endorsement to another carrier in some situations;
Meals, accommodation, or assistance depending on delay and circumstances;
Other compensation depending on rules.

The terminal fee should be included in the refund if the passenger chooses refund and does not travel.

XXIX. Force Majeure or Weather Cancellation

If a flight is cancelled due to weather, safety, airport closure, natural disaster, or other force majeure, remedies may differ from airline fault situations.

However, if the passenger does not travel, the terminal fee remains an unused airport charge and should generally be refundable.

Fare refund, rebooking, or travel fund treatment depends on applicable rules, airline policy, and circumstances.

XXX. Passenger-Caused Non-Travel

If the passenger cannot travel due to incomplete documents, immigration issues, late arrival, personal emergency, or change of mind, the airline may apply fare rules strictly.

Still, the terminal fee is generally not consumed if the passenger did not depart.

Examples:

Passenger forgot passport;
Passenger lacked visa;
Passenger arrived after check-in closed;
Passenger was offloaded by immigration;
Passenger voluntarily decided not to board;
Passenger missed boarding announcement.

These may defeat fare refund, but not necessarily terminal fee refund.

XXXI. Immigration Offloading and Terminal Fee Refund

If a passenger is not allowed to depart by immigration authorities, the passenger usually does not complete the international departure.

In that situation, the passenger may request refund of the unused terminal fee or passenger service charge, subject to the process of the airline or airport authority.

Other parts of the ticket may depend on airline fare rules and whether the passenger can rebook.

XXXII. Travel Agency Bookings

Travel agency bookings create practical issues.

A passenger may ask the airline for a refund but be told to contact the agency. This happens because:

The agency issued the ticket;
Payment was made to the agency;
Refund must be processed through the original booking channel;
The agency must initiate refund in the reservation system;
The airline returns funds to the agency, which then returns them to the passenger.

The passenger should demand transparency from the agency, including:

Refund amount;
Breakdown of fare, taxes, and terminal fee;
Deductions;
Processing fee;
Expected release method;
Written confirmation.

An agency should not misrepresent refundable fees as non-refundable if they are legally refundable.

XXXIII. Online Travel Agencies and Third-Party Platforms

Online travel agencies may impose their own service fees and processing rules. These may complicate terminal fee refunds.

Passengers should check:

Booking terms;
Refund portal;
Customer support process;
Service fee disclosure;
Original airline ticket breakdown;
Whether the platform remits refund to wallet, card, or bank.

If the platform refuses to process refundable terminal fees, the passenger may escalate to the airline, regulator, or consumer protection office, depending on circumstances.

XXXIV. Corporate and Group Bookings

For corporate travel, the employee-passenger may not be the paying party.

Refund may be issued to:

Employer;
Corporate travel agency;
Company credit card;
Central billing account;
Travel management company.

The passenger should coordinate with the company travel desk.

For group bookings, refund may be processed through the group organizer or issuing agent.

XXXV. Refund to Original Form of Payment

Airlines and agencies often refund to the original form of payment.

Examples:

Credit card reversal;
Debit card reversal;
E-wallet refund;
Bank transfer;
Travel fund;
Agency account credit;
Cash refund at ticket office.

A passenger may request cash or bank refund, but the airline may follow its standard process.

A travel fund or voucher may be questionable if the passenger is legally entitled to cash refund, especially for unused government or airport fees. The passenger should ask whether cash refund is available for the terminal fee component.

XXXVI. Travel Fund Instead of Cash Refund

Some airlines offer travel fund or travel voucher.

This may be acceptable if the passenger agrees. But if the passenger asks specifically for refund of unused terminal fee, the airline should not automatically force a travel fund if rules require cash refund or return to original payment.

The passenger should state clearly:

“I am requesting refund of the unused terminal fee/passenger service charge, not travel credit, unless I expressly agree.”

XXXVII. Proof That the Passenger Did Not Fly

Airlines usually know whether a ticket was flown because the coupon status shows whether it was used, checked in, boarded, refunded, exchanged, or open.

However, passengers should keep evidence such as:

No boarding pass issued;
Cancellation confirmation;
No-show record;
Rebooking record;
Offloading document;
Airline email;
Immigration document, if applicable;
Written certification if available.

The airline’s system record is often decisive.

XXXVIII. Can Terminal Fee Be Refunded Automatically?

In an ideal system, unused terminal fees should be automatically refunded when the passenger does not fly or when the airline cancels the ticket.

In practice, many passengers must file a refund request.

Problems may occur because:

The airline does not automatically process no-show refunds;
The passenger booked through an agency;
The passenger does not know the fee is refundable;
The amount is small;
Processing takes time;
The refund system is not user-friendly;
Airline terms are unclear;
The passenger lacks documents.

Passengers should actively claim the refund.

XXXIX. Common Reasons Airlines or Agencies Give for Refusal

Passengers may hear statements such as:

“Your ticket is non-refundable.”
“Promo fares cannot be refunded.”
“You were a no-show.”
“The ticket has expired.”
“Refund period has lapsed.”
“The fee is already remitted.”
“You booked through an agency.”
“The processing fee is higher than the refund.”
“Only taxes are refundable, not terminal fee.”
“Terminal fee refund must be requested from the airport.”

Some of these may be valid in part, but passengers should ask for a specific written explanation and breakdown.

The passenger should clarify:

“I am not asking for refund of the non-refundable base fare. I am requesting refund of the unused terminal fee/passenger service charge.”

XL. What If the Airline Says the Fee Was Remitted to the Airport?

An airline may say that the terminal fee has already been remitted to the airport authority or operator.

That does not necessarily eliminate the passenger’s right to refund. It may only affect internal processing between the airline and airport authority.

The passenger should ask:

Who collected the fee?
Who is responsible for refund processing?
What form should be filed?
What documents are needed?
What is the expected timeline?
Can the airline endorse the claim?

The passenger should not be left without a remedy merely because of internal remittance arrangements.

XLI. What If the Ticket Was Already Expired?

Airlines may impose ticket validity periods. Once expired, the airline may refuse fare refund or rebooking.

However, unused terminal fees and certain taxes may still be conceptually refundable because they are not payment for the airline’s transportation service.

The practical problem is that airline systems may reject old refund requests. Passengers should file promptly and preserve proof of timely claim.

If the airline refuses because of expiration, the passenger may challenge the refusal if the claim concerns unused airport charges rather than fare.

XLII. What If the Passenger Checked In But Did Not Board?

This is a more complicated situation.

If the passenger checked in but did not board, the passenger may have entered the terminal and used some airport services. The issue becomes whether the terminal fee is considered consumed upon terminal entry, check-in, immigration processing, or actual departure.

For many terminal fee systems, the fee is connected to departure as a passenger. If the passenger did not depart, refund may still be arguable. But the airport or airline may contend that terminal facilities were used.

The outcome may depend on the applicable airport rule and how the fee is defined.

Examples:

Passenger checked in online but never went to the airport: terminal fee should generally be refundable.
Passenger entered airport, checked in, passed immigration, but was offloaded: refund may still be claimed, but processing may require special documentation.
Passenger voluntarily left after using terminal facilities: refund may be more disputed.

XLIII. What If the Passenger Entered the Airport But Missed Boarding?

If the passenger entered the airport and used terminal facilities but did not board, the refund may be less straightforward.

The passenger may argue that the charge is for departing passenger service and no departure occurred. The airport may argue that terminal facilities were used.

The passenger should still file a claim if the airline coupon remains unused, but should expect possible questions.

XLIV. Terminal Fee Refund for Rebooked Flights

If the passenger rebooks instead of cancelling, the terminal fee may be transferred to the new flight if applicable.

Possible outcomes:

Terminal fee is carried over to the new ticket;
Additional difference is collected if the new airport fee is higher;
Refund or credit is given if lower;
No separate refund is issued because the fee remains applied to future travel.

If the passenger later cancels the rebooked flight and never travels, the terminal fee may again be refundable.

XLV. Terminal Fee Refund for Rerouted Flights

If the passenger reroutes to another airport, the terminal fee treatment depends on the airport and route.

Example:

Original flight: Manila to Cebu;
New flight: Clark to Cebu.

If the passenger paid a terminal fee for Manila departure but later departed from Clark, the Manila fee may be reversed and the Clark fee may apply.

The ticket should be recalculated.

XLVI. Terminal Fee Refund for Upgraded or Exchanged Tickets

When a ticket is exchanged or upgraded, taxes and fees are usually recalculated.

If an old ticket containing terminal fee is exchanged into a new ticket, the fee may be applied to the new ticket. It may not be separately refundable unless the new travel is also unused or the fee is duplicated.

Passengers should check for duplicate collection.

XLVII. Duplicate Terminal Fee Collection

Duplicate terminal fee collection may occur when:

A ticket is reissued and the fee is collected again;
A passenger pays terminal fee at airport despite already paying it in the ticket;
A travel agency collects it separately and airline ticket also includes it;
A passenger changes flights and old fee is not credited;
System error duplicates taxes and fees.

The passenger may claim refund of the duplicate charge by presenting receipts and ticket breakdown.

XLVIII. Terminal Fee Included in Package Tours

For package tours, the passenger may have paid one lump sum for airfare, hotel, transfers, and tours.

If the flight was unused, the passenger should ask the tour operator for the ticket breakdown. The terminal fee component should not be hidden merely because the package was bundled.

However, package contracts may have their own cancellation rules. The terminal fee refund should still be separated from non-refundable tour components.

XLIX. Charter Flights

Charter flights may have different contractual arrangements.

If a terminal fee or passenger service charge was collected per passenger and the passenger did not depart, refund may be claimed depending on the charter contract, airport rules, and collection method.

The passenger should ask the charter operator for the fee breakdown.

L. Seafarers, OFWs, and Migrant Workers

Seafarers and other overseas workers may be entitled to exemptions or special treatment for certain travel charges.

If terminal fee was collected despite exemption, the worker may claim refund.

If the worker did not travel, refund may also be claimed because the fee was unused.

Practical documents may include:

Seafarer documents;
Overseas employment certificate;
Employment contract;
Passport;
Ticket;
Receipt;
Manning agency endorsement;
Proof of non-travel.

LI. Refund for Deceased Passenger

If a passenger dies before travel, the terminal fee should be refundable because the travel was unused.

The airline may require:

Death certificate;
Proof of relationship or authority;
Passenger ticket;
Proof of payment;
Valid IDs;
Authorization or estate documents depending on amount and policy.

The base fare may also be refundable depending on airline compassionate policy, fare rules, and law.

LII. Refund for Medical Emergency

If a passenger cannot travel due to medical emergency, the terminal fee should generally be refundable.

The airline may require medical certificate if the passenger seeks waiver of fare penalties or broader refund. For terminal fee alone, proof of non-travel and payment should be enough in principle, but airlines may still ask for supporting documents.

LIII. Refund for Government Travel Restrictions

If the passenger cannot travel due to government restrictions, quarantine rules, border closure, airport closure, or similar events, the terminal fee should be refundable if travel is unused.

The passenger may also have broader refund or rebooking rights depending on the airline policy and applicable government directives at the time.

LIV. Terminal Fee Refund and the Air Passenger Bill of Rights

The Philippine air passenger rights framework recognizes that passengers are entitled to certain rights in cases of cancellation, delay, denied boarding, and other travel disruptions.

While the specific remedies depend on the situation, the framework supports the principle that passengers should receive appropriate refund, rebooking, compensation, and assistance when warranted.

Terminal fee refunds for unused travel are consistent with passenger protection because they prevent retention of charges for services not used.

LV. Consumer Protection Principles

The Consumer Act and general consumer protection principles support fair and transparent treatment of passengers.

Relevant principles include:

Fair dealing;
No deceptive or misleading representations;
Clear disclosure of charges;
Proper refund of amounts not due;
Reasonable complaint handling;
No unfair forfeiture;
Accountability of service providers.

An airline or agency should not mislead passengers into believing that all ticket components are automatically forfeited merely because the fare is non-refundable.

LVI. Civil Code Principles

Several Civil Code principles may support a refund claim.

1. Solutio Indebiti

If something is received when there is no right to demand it, and it was unduly delivered through mistake, the obligation to return it may arise.

If a fee was collected but not due because the service was unused or the passenger was exempt, refund may be argued under this principle.

2. Unjust Enrichment

No one should be unjustly enriched at the expense of another.

Retaining an unused terminal fee may be viewed as unjust if the passenger did not receive the corresponding airport service.

3. Obligations and Contracts

Parties must comply with their contractual obligations in good faith. A contract of carriage and ticket terms should not be interpreted to allow unfair retention of charges unrelated to the actual carriage service.

4. Abuse of Rights

A party exercising rights must act with justice, give everyone his due, and observe honesty and good faith. Refusing small but valid refunds through confusing procedures may raise fairness concerns.

LVII. Possible Causes of Action

If refund is refused, possible legal theories may include:

Breach of contract;
Sum of money;
Unjust enrichment;
Violation of consumer rights;
Administrative complaint before aviation or consumer authorities;
Small claims action, if the amount and case type qualify;
Complaint against travel agency for unfair or deceptive practice;
Other civil or administrative remedies.

The best remedy depends on amount, facts, documents, and the entity involved.

LVIII. Small Claims for Terminal Fee Refund

If the amount is within the threshold and the claim is for payment or reimbursement of money, a passenger may consider small claims proceedings.

Small claims may be practical when:

The amount is definite;
The passenger has documents;
The airline or agency refuses refund;
The issue is simple;
The passenger seeks money only.

However, because terminal fee amounts are often small, the passenger should weigh time, effort, filing costs, and practical benefit.

LIX. Administrative Complaints

A passenger may consider filing an administrative complaint when the airline, agency, or operator refuses to process a valid refund.

Possible complaint channels may include:

Airline customer relations;
Airport authority or airport operator customer service;
Civil aviation regulator or passenger rights office;
Consumer protection office;
Department or agency supervising travel agencies, where applicable;
Mediation or arbitration channels if available.

The complaint should include documents and a clear refund demand.

LX. Demand Letter

Before filing a complaint, the passenger may send a written demand letter.

A demand letter should include:

Passenger details;
Booking reference;
Ticket number;
Flight details;
Amount claimed;
Basis for refund;
Prior communications;
Deadline for response;
Bank or payment details if appropriate;
Attachments.

A polite but firm demand often resolves small refund disputes.

LXI. Sample Demand Letter

Subject: Final Demand for Refund of Unused Terminal Fee / Passenger Service Charge

I am writing to formally request the refund of the terminal fee/passenger service charge collected for my unused flight.

Passenger: [Name] Booking Reference: [Reference] Ticket Number: [Ticket Number] Flight: [Flight Number] Route: [Route] Travel Date: [Date] Amount Claimed: [Amount]

I did not take the flight. The terminal fee/passenger service charge was therefore not consumed for the covered departure. The non-refundable nature of the base fare should not result in forfeiture of unused airport charges.

Please process the refund within a reasonable period from receipt of this letter. Attached are copies of my itinerary receipt, proof of payment, identification, and previous communications.

If this matter remains unresolved, I reserve the right to elevate the complaint to the appropriate regulatory, consumer protection, or judicial forum.

Thank you.

LXII. Common Evidence in Refund Disputes

Useful evidence includes:

E-ticket itinerary receipt;
Official receipt;
Credit card statement;
Booking confirmation;
Fare and tax breakdown;
Airline cancellation email;
Proof of no-show or unused coupon;
Screenshots from airline app;
Refund request reference number;
Emails with customer service;
Chat transcripts;
Travel agency invoice;
Proof of exemption, if applicable;
Demand letter;
Proof of delivery or receipt.

The passenger should organize evidence chronologically.

LXIII. Importance of Fare and Tax Breakdown

A passenger should ask for a detailed breakdown because airlines and agencies sometimes provide only a total refund amount.

The breakdown should show:

Base fare;
Airline surcharge;
VAT or tax;
Terminal fee;
Other airport fees;
Penalties;
Refund service fee;
Net refund.

Without a breakdown, the passenger cannot verify whether the terminal fee was refunded.

LXIV. Can the Airline Apply the Terminal Fee to Penalties?

A key issue is whether an airline may use refundable terminal fees to offset cancellation or no-show penalties.

In principle, penalties apply to the fare or airline-controlled components according to ticket rules. Airport charges collected for unused services should not automatically be converted into airline penalty revenue.

If the airline deducts penalties from all refundable components, the passenger should ask for the legal and contractual basis.

The passenger may argue that terminal fee is not part of the fare and should not be absorbed by airline penalties.

LXV. Can a Travel Agency Keep the Terminal Fee as Service Fee?

A travel agency may charge a service fee if validly disclosed and agreed upon. But it should not misrepresent the terminal fee as non-refundable if it is refundable.

If the agency keeps the terminal fee without explanation, the passenger should demand:

Airline refund confirmation;
Agency fee basis;
Written computation;
Terms and conditions relied upon;
Proof that the passenger agreed to the service fee.

Unfair or hidden deductions may be challenged.

LXVI. Refund Where Payment Was by Credit Card

If the ticket was paid by credit card, refund is usually returned to the same card.

The passenger should note:

Airline approval date is not always the same as card posting date;
Banks may take additional time;
Refund may appear as reversal or credit;
Currency conversion may differ for foreign-issued cards;
Closed card accounts may require bank coordination.

The passenger should keep both airline refund confirmation and card statement.

LXVII. Refund Where Payment Was by Cash

For cash payments, refund may be released through:

Airline ticket office;
Travel agency;
Bank transfer;
Check;
E-wallet;
Cash pickup.

The passenger may need to present valid ID and original receipt.

LXVIII. Refund Where Payment Was by E-Wallet or Online Banking

If paid through e-wallet or online banking, refund may be returned to:

Original wallet;
Payment gateway;
Airline wallet;
Bank account;
Travel fund.

Processing may require verification because payment intermediaries are involved.

LXIX. Foreign Airlines Operating in the Philippines

Foreign airlines operating flights from Philippine airports may collect Philippine terminal fees.

A passenger who does not depart from the Philippines may claim refund of the Philippine terminal fee if collected.

Refund may be processed through the foreign airline’s local office, website, call center, or travel agency.

The passenger should specify that the claim concerns the Philippine passenger service charge for unused departure.

LXX. Codeshare and Interline Tickets

For codeshare or interline tickets, one airline may sell the ticket while another operates the flight.

Refunds are usually handled by the ticket-issuing airline or agency.

The passenger should identify:

Marketing carrier;
Operating carrier;
Ticketing carrier;
Ticket number prefix;
Place of purchase;
Unused segment.

The terminal fee refund should be processed through the ticketing/refund channel even if another airline operated the flight.

LXXI. International Tickets Purchased Abroad

If a ticket involving departure from the Philippines was purchased abroad, the Philippine terminal fee may still be included.

The refund may be subject to:

Foreign airline office procedures;
Currency conversion;
International ticketing rules;
Travel agency rules abroad;
Card issuer processes.

The passenger should still request refund of the unused Philippine passenger service charge if the Philippine departure was not used.

LXXII. Currency Issues

If a ticket was purchased in foreign currency, the refund may be processed in the original currency or converted.

Differences may arise due to:

Exchange rates;
Card issuer conversion;
Refund date conversion;
Bank fees;
Currency restrictions;
Agency service fees.

The passenger should check the refund computation.

LXXIII. Terminal Fee Refund and Taxes on Refund

A refund of an unused terminal fee is generally a return of an amount previously paid, not income to the passenger.

For ordinary passengers, there is usually no income tax issue. For businesses, corporate travel refunds may need proper accounting treatment.

Businesses should record refunds according to their accounting policies.

LXXIV. Accounting Treatment for Businesses

Companies that pay for employee travel should monitor refunds of unused terminal fees.

Good practice includes:

Recording ticket components;
Tracking unused tickets;
Claiming refundable taxes and airport fees;
Reconciling agency statements;
Ensuring refunds return to company accounts;
Avoiding employee double recovery.

Corporate travel departments should periodically audit unused tickets.

LXXV. Airport Fee Refund vs. Travel Tax Refund

The terminal fee is different from Philippine travel tax.

A. Terminal Fee

Collected for airport terminal/passenger service.

Refundable when unused or improperly collected.

B. Travel Tax

A separate government-imposed tax on certain persons leaving the Philippines, subject to exemptions and reduced rates.

Travel tax has its own refund rules and procedures.

A passenger may be entitled to refund of both terminal fee and travel tax if both were paid and the passenger did not travel or was exempt.

The passenger must file the proper claim with the correct entity.

LXXVI. Terminal Fee Refund vs. Immigration Fees

Immigration-related charges, visa fees, or documentary fees are separate from terminal fee.

If a passenger did not travel, refundability depends on the nature of the charge and the issuing authority.

Visa fees, for example, are often non-refundable because they pay for processing, not travel.

LXXVII. Terminal Fee Refund vs. Baggage Fees and Seat Fees

Ancillary airline fees are different from terminal fees.

Examples:

Prepaid baggage;
Seat selection;
Meals;
Insurance;
Priority boarding;
Lounge access;
Sports equipment;
Change fees.

If travel is unused, refundability of these items depends on airline terms and whether the service was used.

Terminal fee refund should not be confused with ancillary service refunds.

LXXVIII. Travel Insurance

If the passenger bought travel insurance, the insurance premium may be non-refundable once coverage attached, depending on policy terms.

If the passenger did not travel due to covered reasons, the passenger may file an insurance claim separately.

The terminal fee refund is separate from insurance benefits.

LXXIX. Airline Insolvency or Suspension of Operations

If an airline suspends operations or becomes insolvent, passengers may have difficulty recovering terminal fees.

Possible remedies include:

Filing refund claim immediately;
Monitoring regulatory announcements;
Filing claim in insolvency or rehabilitation proceedings;
Credit card chargeback if available;
Complaint with regulators;
Claim through travel agency if payment was not remitted.

Recovery may be uncertain if the airline lacks funds.

LXXX. Chargeback Through Credit Card

If an airline or agency refuses a valid refund, a passenger who paid by credit card may consider a chargeback request.

Chargeback may be available when:

Service was not provided;
Refund was promised but not issued;
Duplicate charge occurred;
Unauthorized charge occurred;
Merchant violated card rules.

However, chargeback periods are strict. The passenger should contact the card issuer promptly.

Chargeback is not always guaranteed and may require proof.

LXXXI. Data Privacy in Refund Claims

Refund processing requires personal information.

Airlines and agencies may request:

ID;
Ticket details;
Contact information;
Bank account details;
Proof of relationship or authority.

They should process personal data only for legitimate refund purposes and protect it under data privacy principles.

Passengers should avoid sending unnecessary sensitive documents and should use official channels.

LXXXII. Fraudulent Refund Claims

A person should not claim terminal fee refund if the passenger actually travelled and the fee was used.

Fraudulent claims may expose a person to civil, criminal, or administrative consequences.

Airline records can verify whether the coupon was flown.

LXXXIII. Authority to Claim for Another Passenger

If someone claims refund on behalf of another passenger, the airline or agency may require:

Authorization letter;
Valid ID of passenger;
Valid ID of representative;
Proof of relationship;
Death certificate and heir documents if passenger is deceased;
Corporate authorization for business travel.

This prevents unauthorized release of funds.

LXXXIV. Minors

For minors, a parent or legal guardian may process the refund.

Documents may include:

Minor’s ticket;
Parent or guardian ID;
Birth certificate or proof of guardianship;
Proof of payment.

LXXXV. Estate Claims for Deceased Passengers

If the refund belongs to a deceased passenger, the airline may require documents showing who is authorized to receive it.

For small amounts, airlines may accept simplified documents. For larger amounts, they may require estate or heirship documents.

The terminal fee remains refundable if unused, but release must be made to the proper person.

LXXXVI. Practical Problems With Small Refund Amounts

Terminal fee amounts may be relatively small compared with the effort required to claim them.

Because of this, many passengers do not file claims. This leads to large aggregate amounts of unclaimed fees.

From a consumer rights perspective, refund procedures should be simple, accessible, and not more burdensome than the refund itself.

Airlines and airports should provide clear online processes.

LXXXVII. Best Practices for Passengers

Passengers should:

Keep the itinerary receipt;
Check if terminal fee is included;
File refund requests promptly;
Specify terminal fee or passenger service charge;
Separate fare refund from fee refund;
Keep screenshots and email confirmations;
Ask for a breakdown of refund;
Follow up in writing;
Avoid relying only on call center conversations;
Escalate if refused without basis;
Keep proof of non-travel.

LXXXVIII. Best Practices for Airlines

Airlines should:

Clearly disclose terminal fee components;
Distinguish fare rules from airport fee refunds;
Provide easy online refund forms;
Automatically refund unused terminal fees where possible;
Avoid misleading “non-refundable” labels;
Give written explanations for deductions;
Coordinate with airports and agencies;
Process refunds within reasonable time;
Train customer service staff;
Preserve passenger records.

LXXXIX. Best Practices for Travel Agencies

Travel agencies should:

Disclose ticket components;
Help passengers claim refundable fees;
Avoid retaining terminal fee without basis;
Provide refund computations;
Disclose service fees before booking;
Return airline-approved refunds promptly;
Keep proper records;
Explain timelines honestly;
Coordinate with airlines efficiently.

XC. Best Practices for Airport Authorities and Operators

Airport authorities and operators should:

Publish refund rules;
Coordinate with airlines for automatic refunds;
Provide direct refund channels when needed;
Recognize exemptions properly;
Prevent duplicate collection;
Maintain transparent accounting;
Resolve passenger complaints promptly;
Ensure that unused passenger service charges are not unfairly retained.

XCI. Checklist: Is the Terminal Fee Refundable?

Ask the following:

Was a terminal fee or passenger service charge collected?
Did the passenger actually take the flight?
Was the relevant departure segment unused?
Was the fee already applied to a rebooked flight?
Was the passenger exempt from the fee?
Was the fee collected twice?
Was the ticket bought through an airline or agency?
Is there proof of payment?
Is there proof of non-travel?
Was the claim filed promptly?

If the fee was collected and the passenger did not use the covered departure, a refund claim is generally proper.

XCII. Common Mistakes by Passengers

Passengers often lose or delay refunds because they:

Assume non-refundable fare means no refund at all;
Do not ask for the terminal fee separately;
Throw away receipts;
File with the wrong entity;
Wait too long;
Accept travel fund without checking cash refund rights;
Fail to ask for a breakdown;
Do not preserve proof of non-travel;
Let the travel agency keep the refund;
Confuse terminal fee with travel tax;
Fail to follow up in writing.

XCIII. Common Mistakes by Airlines and Agencies

Airlines and agencies create disputes when they:

Tell passengers that all charges are non-refundable;
Fail to distinguish fare from terminal fee;
Refuse to process no-show fee refunds;
Impose unclear service charges;
Delay refunds without explanation;
Require excessive documents;
Hide refund breakdowns;
Force travel credit for refundable charges;
Fail to coordinate with airport authorities;
Give inconsistent answers through call centers.

XCIV. Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the terminal fee refundable if I did not fly?

Yes, generally. If the terminal fee was collected and the flight was unused, the passenger may claim a refund.

2. Is it refundable even if my ticket is non-refundable?

Yes. The non-refundable nature of the base fare does not automatically make the terminal fee non-refundable.

3. Can I refund the terminal fee if I was a no-show?

Generally yes, because you did not depart on the flight. Fare penalties may apply, but the terminal fee is separate.

4. Where do I claim the refund?

Usually with the airline if the fee was included in the ticket. If booked through a travel agency, claim through the agency. If paid directly at the airport, claim through the airport authority or operator.

5. What documents do I need?

Usually the ticket, booking reference, proof of payment, ID, and proof or confirmation that the flight was unused.

6. Can the airline deduct a processing fee?

It may depend on disclosed terms and applicable rules. Ask for a written breakdown and basis for any deduction.

7. What if the processing fee is higher than the refund?

You may ask whether the fee can be waived, especially where the amount is a government or airport charge for unused service. If the deduction is unfair or undisclosed, it may be challenged.

8. What if I already entered the airport but did not board?

You may still request refund, but the issue may be more disputed because the airport may say terminal services were used.

9. What if I was offloaded by immigration?

You may request refund of the unused terminal fee because you did not depart. Keep any documents showing offloading or non-departure.

10. What if the airline cancelled the flight?

You may usually claim broader remedies, including refund or rebooking. The terminal fee should be refunded if you did not travel.

11. What if I rebooked?

The terminal fee may be carried over to the new ticket. If you later do not travel, you may claim refund of the unused fee.

12. What if I paid terminal fee twice?

You may claim refund of the duplicate payment. Present both receipts or ticket breakdowns.

13. Is terminal fee the same as travel tax?

No. Terminal fee is an airport passenger service charge. Travel tax is a separate government tax on certain international departures.

14. Can OFWs refund terminal fee?

If an OFW was exempt but charged, refund may be claimed. If the OFW did not travel, refund may also be claimed on the basis of non-use.

15. Can I sue for terminal fee refund?

Yes, if the amount and circumstances justify it, but administrative complaint, customer service escalation, or small claims may be more practical.

XCV. Illustrative Scenarios

Scenario 1: Promo Fare No-Show

A passenger buys a promo ticket from Manila to Davao. The passenger misses the flight. The airline says the promo fare is non-refundable.

The passenger may still request refund of the domestic terminal fee or passenger service charge included in the ticket.

Scenario 2: Airline Cancels Flight

An airline cancels a Manila to Cebu flight. The passenger chooses refund instead of rebooking.

The refund should include the unused terminal fee, along with other refundable components.

Scenario 3: Duplicate Payment

A passenger’s ticket already includes the international passenger service charge, but the passenger also pays terminal fee at the airport.

The passenger may claim refund of the duplicate terminal fee payment.

Scenario 4: Travel Agency Refuses Refund

A passenger booked through a travel agency and did not fly. The agency says the ticket is non-refundable and gives no breakdown.

The passenger should request a written breakdown and specifically demand refund of the unused terminal fee/passenger service charge.

Scenario 5: OFW Charged Despite Exemption

An OFW buys an international ticket and is charged a terminal fee despite presenting exemption documents.

The OFW may claim refund by submitting proof of status, ticket, receipt, and identification.

Scenario 6: Offloaded Passenger

A passenger is not allowed to depart by immigration authorities. The airline treats the passenger as no-show for fare purposes.

The passenger may still request refund of the unused international terminal fee or passenger service charge.

XCVI. Practical Legal Analysis

The main legal question is not simply whether the ticket is refundable. The better question is:

What part of the ticket price is being refunded?

If the claim concerns the base fare, airline fare rules matter greatly.

If the claim concerns the terminal fee, the key questions are:

Was the fee collected?
Was the related airport departure service used?
Was the fee transferred to another flight?
Was the passenger exempt?
Was there duplicate collection?
Was the refund request timely and properly filed?

A blanket refusal based on “non-refundable ticket” is incomplete because it ignores the separate nature of airport fees.

XCVII. Remedies If Refund Is Denied

A passenger whose terminal fee refund is denied may:

Ask for a written explanation;
Request a full fare, tax, and fee breakdown;
Clarify that the claim is for unused terminal fee, not base fare;
Escalate to airline customer relations;
Contact the travel agency or booking platform;
Contact the airport authority or operator if appropriate;
File a consumer or aviation-related complaint;
Send a demand letter;
Consider small claims if the amount justifies it;
Use credit card chargeback if applicable and timely.

XCVIII. Key Principles

The essential principles are:

Terminal fee is separate from airfare.
A non-refundable ticket does not automatically forfeit terminal fees.
If the passenger did not fly, the terminal fee was generally unused.
The passenger should claim refund promptly.
The proper refund channel depends on who collected the fee.
Travel agencies must provide transparency.
Airlines should provide a breakdown of refundable and non-refundable components.
Duplicate or erroneous collection should be refunded.
Exempt passengers charged by mistake may claim refund.
Written records are important.

XCIX. Conclusion

A terminal fee or passenger service charge is an airport-related fee collected from passengers for the use of airport terminal services. In the Philippines, it is often included in the airline ticket, which causes many passengers to mistakenly believe that it becomes non-refundable whenever the ticket is non-refundable.

The correct view is more precise. The base fare may be non-refundable under airline rules, but the terminal fee is a separate charge. If the passenger did not take the flight and did not use the covered departure service, the terminal fee should generally be refundable. This applies even to promo fares, no-show passengers, missed flights, cancelled trips, duplicate bookings, and other unused travel situations, subject to the applicable procedure and proof.

Passengers should request the refund clearly, keep documents, ask for a breakdown, and file promptly with the airline, travel agency, or airport operator depending on how the fee was collected. If refused, they may escalate through customer service, administrative complaint, demand letter, chargeback, or legal action where justified.

The central rule is simple: a non-refundable airfare does not necessarily mean non-refundable terminal fee. If the airport service was paid for but not used, the passenger should have a remedy to recover the unused terminal fee.