Green Party leader and Euro-MP Caroline Lucas has written to the European Commission today to urge it to uphold a crucial EU law which requires airlines to help passengers affected by the volcanic ash crisis.
In a letter to President Barroso (1), Lucas highlights reports in the British media (2) that representatives from the airline industry have met with the Commission to ask for the temporary suspension of the EU Directive on air passenger rights (Regulation 261/2004).
This law requires the airlines to offer vital protection and provisions, such as free food and accommodation, in the event of a major incident. But it has been reported that some travellers caught up in delays as a result of the volcanic ash clouds from Iceland have already experienced airlines withholding compensation to cover hotels and refreshments.
Caroline Lucas said: “I am shocked that the airline industry would move to block the passenger rights protected by EU law in an attempt to safeguard their own profits. It is a cynical and irresponsible move, and I urge the Commission to uphold European law, as well as issue an immediate warning to those airlines already refusing to meet reasonable accommodation and refreshment expenses for passengers.
“The European Commission’s representation in the UK has been helpful in advising passengers about their rights (3) and I very much hope that this approach will be mirrored across the EU.”
Notes
1. http://www.carolinelucasmep.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/file/Commairlinecompensationapril2010.pdf.
2. http://www.channel4.com/news/articles/uk/volcanic+ash+airlines+no+longer+covering+bills/3620487.
3. http://ec.europa.eu/unitedkingdom/press/frontpage/100416_en.htm.