Disney Faces Backlash Over Denied Refunds Amid Hurricane Park Closures

A recent guest report has highlighted growing frustration among Disney fans after Walt Disney World allegedly refused to issue refunds for Lightning Lane purchases when the parks were closed due to Hurricane Milton. The guest, who visited during the storm and had prepaid for Lightning Lane access on October 10, expressed disappointment after multiple unsuccessful attempts to receive a refund for the experience.

Related: New Weather Disturbance Could Impact Disney World – Is Your Vacation Safe?

A Hurricane Rip-Off

According to the guest’s account, they purchased Lightning Lane passes for October 10 but were unable to use them when Disney closed its parks on both October 9 and 10 due to safety concerns brought by Hurricane Milton. Despite three separate calls to Disney’s customer service, the guest claims that their request for a refund was denied, leaving them out $138.

“Extremely disappointed in Walt Disney World!” the guest shared in a social media post, noting their frustration with the handling of refund requests amid unforeseen circumstances. The guest also sought suggestions from other visitors, asking if there were any alternative ways to recover the amount spent on unused Lightning Lane passes. The full post reads:

Extremely disappointed in Walt Disney world!!! We were there though Hurricane Milton and they closed the park on 10/9 and 10/10. We had lightening lane prepurchased for 10/10. We couldn’t use them as the park was closed due to the hurricane. THEY REFUSED TO REFUND AFTER THREE SEPARATE PHONE CALLS. What else do I do? It was 138$! Any other suggestions?

The Lightning Lane system, which allows guests to skip standard lines for select attractions, is typically non-refundable under Disney’s policies. However, closures due to extreme weather events have occasionally led Disney to make exceptions, especially if a significant portion of a guest’s plans is affected. The denial of a refund in this case has sparked a broader conversation on social media, with other guests voicing their support for flexibility under extraordinary conditions like hurricanes.

Guests Sympathize with Tricky Situation

Many Disney fans sympathize with the guest, suggesting additional avenues such as contacting Disney’s Guest Relations in person or escalating the issue through formal complaints. Others have expressed hope that Disney may reconsider its approach to refunds when weather-related closures impact pre-purchased services, especially given the importance of accommodating guests in unpredictable situations.

As for Disney, the company has yet to release a formal statement on this specific issue, but it may soon find itself needing to address growing concerns around refund policies.