April 30 updates: AIDA extends suspension, German travel agents seek state aidApril 30 updates: AIDA extends suspension, German travel agents seek state aid

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AIDA delay, booking incentive and agent protection

AIDA Cruises extended its suspension of operations through June. Passengers booked on the canceled cruises can get a refund or a 110% future cruise credit that may be applied to travel by the end of 2021. The credit may also go toward on-board purchases.

To support travel agents, AIDA will pay 10% commission on the future cruise credit as soon as it's issued to the customer.

Until July 31, passengers can reschedule any cruises without penalty as long as they cancel at least 60 days before the departure date.

German travel trade demonstrate for public aid

Thousands of German travel trade professionals demonstrated for public financial support in more than 30 cities throughout Germany. Wednesday's demonstrations started in Dresden, where 50 busses — each carrying just two people — proceeded to the Federal State Parliament. Demonstrations took place under strict regulations and with a limited number of participants keeping distance between each other.

The travel advisors called for direct and non-repayable financial aid from the German government and the federal states. They claim business development bank credit schemes set up during the COVID-19 crisis are practically inaccessible to most agents.