Source · Select Committees · Transport Committee
Recommendation 14
14
Paragraph: 69
We welcome the Government’s decision to seek views on the length of delay that should...
Recommendation
We welcome the Government’s decision to seek views on the length of delay that should trigger compensation for domestic flights as part of its airline passenger rights consultation, as well as the requirement that all airlines that fly to and from the UK participate in the alternative dispute resolution scheme. However, the Committee is concerned that the effect of the Government’s proposed compensation scheme, which is out for consultation, could result in much reduced compensation for passengers, albeit it that a greater number of passengers may benefit from such a scheme. Although moving to a compensation scheme that is similar to the Delay Repay rail scheme might be desirable for consistency, in many cases flight delays are far more costly to the passenger than a delayed rail journey. Delayed air passengers can face missing holidays or increased travel and accommodation costs. The Government must take those factors into account in designing a new scheme.
Paragraph Reference:
69
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The Government has noted this recommendation. Automatic compensation has been raised in some responses to the Aviation Consumer Policy Reform Consultation and will be considered as part of the analysis of responses. We understand there are a number of practical challenges to overcome to enable automatic refunds and compensation, and would require further work alongside industry to be able to consider this further. There are protections in place for passengers when flights are disrupted. Airlines are required by law to provide information to passengers about their rights (including refunds and compensation as necessary) in the event of cancellation, long delay and denied boarding. We also want to ensure that information on what to do when things go wrong is as accessible and easy to understand for passengers as possible. That is why we recently committed, through Flightpath to the Future, to publish an Aviation Passenger Charter, which will bring together in one place key information for passengers on their rights and responsibilities when travelling by air. The Charter will be developed in partnership with industry and consumer groups and will be published soon.