Airlines say they are clearing refunds backlog caused by cancellations

The latest revelations come as World Health Organisation (WHO) special envoy Dr David Nabarro said he would urge people thinking of travelling abroad to abandon their plans if there were any doubts in their minds.

A man wearing a protective face mask at a Ryanair check in desk in terminal one at Dublin airport recently. The airline has said it is making progress in clearing its refunds backlog. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Ryanair has insisted it will have refunded 90% of passengers for Covid-19 affected flights by the end of the month, while Aer Lingus says it processed 250,000 vouchers and refunds.