The Bankrupt Airline and The Check Card

If I had a nickel for all the times I have read or heard people praising the all mighty check card.

• Oh, it's as good as a credit card
• That Visa Logo protects you against purchases - just like a Visa

Well, to all you worshipers of the mighty check card I have a story to share with you.

Here's the story, of a lovely lady, who was planning a trip to Hawaii.
She booked her flight online, with her lover, the one of 40 years.

Here's the story of website system that accepted her check card for
payment. They were two girls, so happy together, planning a trip
with their family.

As time grew closer, it became apparent, that the airline they chose,
was headed to bust. The papers were filed and the flights
were cancelled. Leaving both of them with $1600 less.

So, me - the one with NO check card, asks "Isn't your flight money reimbursable with the Visa Logo, just like if I had charged the tickets with my Visa."

Imagine my surprise when she said "NO!"

Why in the world would anyone spend that kind of money without protection. Why would Visa not protect them. What in the world is the LOGO for?

I will never be a check card only user. That is ridiculous. Who could afford to lose that kind of money? With no Dispute option. With our economy and the state of the airlines it is risky buying tickets. Anyone of these guys could go bust tomorrow.

You think gas is expensive - try to fathom Jet Fuel.

Amazing!

**Note, my friends could not just bite the cost and stay home. This trip did have a purpose, a nephew's wedding. So, they just forked over more money at the last minute (which is more costly) to get to Hawaii.