FAIR DEAL FOR NORTH EAST FLYERS (Fiona Hall MEP)

Fiona Hall MEP <info@fionahall.org.uk>

FAIR DEAL FOR NORTH EAST FLYERS

February 16, 2005 12:00 AM

New EU laws that enter into force tomorrow (Thursday February 17) should provide comfort for North East holidaymakers stranded at airports because of flight delays and cancellations, says a local Euro-MP.

Each year around one quarter of a million passengers get a nasty surprise when checking in for flights in airports across the EU. Airlines often overbook flights to make more money as they expect passengers not to turn up. But occasionally too many people turn up for a flight and some unfortunate passengers get left behind.

From tomorrow increased financial compensation will be given to passengers denied boarding due to overbooking of flights. Passengers on short flight will receive around £170, an extra £70 on top of current rates, with compensation for longer flights doubled to around £420.

The new law will also mean that for the first time passengers whose flights have been cancelled or delayed will be compensated or refunded for the inconvenience. This will extend to holidaymakers on charter flights as well as scheduled departures.

In addition to financial compensation, passengers who are delayed, denied boarding or have a cancelled flight must be provided with meals, refreshments and if necessary, hotel accommodation.

North East Euro-MP Fiona Hall argues that airlines have got to accept minimum standards of public service.

She said: "Low cost airlines should not build their businesses on the basis of cutting corners and overbooking. Customers have a right to fair treatment and protection from shoddy service."