The Consumer Council on Wednesday called on airlines to clarify their terms and conditions for flight tickets following a hike in complaints.

At a press briefing, the chairman of the council's publicity and community relations committee, Kyrus Siu, said the watchdog received 1,537 complaints regarding flight tickets in the first 10 months of this year, after 984 complaints during the whole of 2022.

Siu said more than 60 percent of the complaints were related to flight cancellations and rescheduling.

He urged airlines to provide clear information about their policies concerning refunds, cancellations and rescheduling.

“Some airlines offer more expensive tickets with free change or even refunds, which may only in fact waive handling charges involved in rescheduling and passengers are still required to pay the differences in air fares, taxes or class upgrade," said Siu.

"The council recommends airlines to enhance clarity of services, and terms and conditions of various types of air tickets, so consumers can make easier comparison before making their choice.”

Siu also reminded travellers to carefully read the terms and conditions of air tickets before making any bookings.

He advised people to contact the Hong Kong Travel Industry Authority in the event of any disputes with licensed travel agents.