Airbnb will pay hosts $250 million to help them deal with mass cancellations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Under this initiative, hosts will receive up to a 25% refund for cancellations made from March 14 through May 31, 2020. In addition, guests who cancel during this time period will be refunded or receive a travel credit.
“We determined that we had to allow your guests to cancel and receive a full refund—including all our fees,” Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky wrote.
“Please know this decision was not a business decision, but based on protecting public health. However, while I believe we did the right thing in prioritizing health and safety, I’m sorry that we communicated this decision to guests without consulting you—like partners should. We have heard from you and we know we could have been better partners,” he added.
The tech company is also creating a $10 million fund for super hosts and experienced hosts. In addition, users will soon have the option to donate to hosts if they wish to do so. Lastly, Airbnb will offer $5,000 grants to certain hosts during this time as well.
