Malaysia Airlines to refund passengers their flight fee after second disaster

Malaysia Airlines has announced it is waiving fees for any passengers who wish to make changes to any of their flight itineraries following the MH17 disaster.

The airline said that passengers who wished to postpone or cancel their travel plans could have a refund, including for non-refundable tickets.

A spokesman said: "Our Enrich passengers will also receive fee waivers for any changes to their travel itinerary, as well as refunds of miles should they choose to cancel their redemption tickets.

"These waivers are only applicable from July 18, 2014 until July 24, 2014, for travel between July 18, 2014 until Dec 31, 2014."

Those who wish to change their travel plans are urged to contact their nearest Malaysia Airlines ticket office or call the global call centre on 1 300 88 3000.

The spokesman added: "Malaysia Airlines deeply regrets the loss of MH17, and is very much appreciative of the support from our passengers."

Flight MH17 was said by eyewitnesses to have "exploded" after it was reportedly shot down by a ground-to-air missile.   

Among the dead British nationals were student Richard Mayne , Newcastle United Fans  John Alder and Liam Sweeney , and WHO spokesman  Glenn Thomas  who was one of  108 Aids experts on their way to a conference in Australia .

There was also Ben Pocock, a second year international business student on his way to Australia for a year abroad as part of his degree; and helicopter pilot Cameron Dalziel, 43, who lived in Malaysia and had been doing some training in the Netherlands.

British experts will fly to Ukraine to join the investigation into the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17.