Operators argue people want option with cheaper fares as compensation rules also discussed
Airlines for Europe (A4E) has also claimed that the current EU rules covering passenger compensation for delayed flights need to be overhauled.
But the European Union parliament’s Transport and Tourism Committee has this week insisted that it will push to retain and add to passenger rights as potential changes to the rules are negotiated.
MEPs who are members of the committee have insisted that passengers should have the right to take one personal item such as a laptop or handbag on board their flight for free, as long as it fits under the seat in front.
Ryanair and Aer Lingus owner IAG are part of the lobby group that says the EU move is ‘out of sync with what customers want’. Photo: Getty
Today’s News in 90 Seconds – Wednesday, October 15
Additionally, MEPs want passengers to be permitted to take on board a small piece of hand luggage weighing no more than 7kg, for free.
Decision-makers should respect and reinforce consumer choice
Currently, many airlines charge passengers extra if they want to take cabin baggage on their flights.
“Political calls to impose ‘free’ cabin bags are entirely out of sync with passenger preferences,” insisted A4E.
It pointed to a recent YouGov survey that showed that passengers prefer lower fares and an option to choose extra bags for payment, rather than higher fares with an additional bag included.
“Only 20pc of passengers who fly are also willing to risk waiting longer to load excess cabin luggage if an extra cabin bag were included in their basic fare,” noted A4E. It added: “Decision-makers should respect and reinforce consumer choice and operational realities.”
Passengers are also currently entitled to generous compensation under EU rules.
The current compensation rules under directive EU261 apply to passengers flying within the EU on a non-EU or EU carrier, on flights arriving in the EU with an EU airline and on all flights departing the EU.
The potential compensation for passengers can add up to hundreds of euro, depending on the distance of the affected flight and the length of the delay.
On short-haul flights, the rules kick in once a flight has been delayed for three hours or more. On long-haul flights, they apply once a service has been delayed for five or more hours.
“Arbitrary three-hour thresholds leave airlines little time to bring in backup planes or crews,” A4E insisted, as airline chiefs held a meeting on Paris yesterday.
Behind every delay, there are real people, with missed birthdays, funerals, weddings
“Extending that window to five hours could prevent up to 40pc of delays – with better outcomes for passengers and the environment,” it said.
But the EU’s Transport and Tourism Committee has insisted that the current delay windows be retained.
“Behind every delay or cancellation, there are real people, with missed birthdays, funerals, weddings, and job interviews,” said MEP Andrey Novakov, the European Parliament’s lead negotiator on air-passenger rights.
“We are committed to finding a fair balance between the interests of the aviation industry and the rights of passengers,” he said.
“However, we will not compromise on the current levels and fundamental principles of passenger protection, including the three-hour threshold for compensation.”