Since Airbnb archived the previous post on this topic, I'm reposting because hosts want this option!!
CANCELLATION INSURANCE: This would be a major WIN-WIN for guests, hosts, and AIRBNB. Hosts should not have to take a financial hit when a guest cancels. Guests should not have to pay 50% to cancel. Bad feelings for everybody and not goodwill for AIRBNB. This insurance is widely available and INEXPENSIVE. IT SHOULD BE OFFERED TO GUESTS!!! Airbnb could buy the insurance wholesale from a vendor and offer it (even make a little profit) as an optional (or better yet, INCLUDED) service with each booking. There are lots of ways this could be offered---the bottom line is it should be offered so all parties don't suffer because DELTA airlines computer systems crashed and stranded tens of thousands of its passengers. Or other maladies that happen (Sh** Happens!)
HEY AIRBNB! PAY ATTENTION---This suggestion can make you money!!!
