Brussels, 04/03/2013 (Agence Europe) - The chairman of the Parliamentary committee on transport, Brian Simpson (S&D, United Kingdom) has been examining the problems experienced by airline passengers. It appears, however, that some of these problems have not been tackled in the forthcoming review of provisions on airline passenger rights, for example, hidden costs and problems encountered when airlines go bankrupt.
Simpson was answering questions put to him by internet users during a “chat” organised on Facebook on 27 February. He said that the review of passenger rights would close the loopholes. The review is expected to be presented at the end of the month and seeks to improve compensation rules for passengers on flights which are cancelled, delayed or overbooked. The MEP said that “that airlines have been using a clause known as force majeure, or unforeseen circumstances, to avoid paying compensation”.
Hidden costs. Simpson has for a long time criticised the hidden costs applied by airlines when online reservations are made and argues that “when you book online the first price you see should be the final price. Problem is, airlines show the cheapest flight and then add the bits on as you go through the process”. He said that what he would like to see is “regulations that make the highest possible price the first price you see!” The Commission, however, will not be touching on this sensitive subject in the airline passenger rights review, despite repeated demands made by MEPs. The Commission believes that this is a problem for the industry and does not require legislation on the matter.
Bankruptcies. Simpson may also be disappointed by the Commission's proposals in the event of an airline going bust. Parliament would like a fund to be set up so that European passengers stranded abroad when these bankruptcies take place can be sent home. He has already pointed out that the fund could be paid for by adding just one euro to every airline ticket, “but unfortunately the Council of Ministers and airlines are not fans of this idea”.
Liquid bans. Simpson also spoke about on board restrictions on liquids and explained that “we have developed machines that can detect explosives in liquids, which is why I'm confident we can start lifting the ban next January”. This is expected to be done on a gradual basis. In a press release on 1 March his colleague Saïd El Khadraoui (S&D, Belgium) stated how important it was for “airports to be well-prepared for these new rules” so that “their passengers are clearly informed about what can and cannot be taken on board. An effective information campaign is essential to prevent as much confusion as possible”. (MD/transl.fl)