EC moves to enforce passenger rights rules in six EU states
Thursday July 7, 2005

The European Commission launched infringement proceedings against six member states, citing their "failure to meet all their obligations" under the EU's new passenger rights legislation covering flight cancellations, denied boarding and long delays that became effective Feb. 17.According to the Commission, Austria, Belgium, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta and Sweden "have not yet taken the steps required to establish penalties to be imposed on airlines for infringement. These penalties must be effective, proportionate and dissuasive so that the new rights really do guarantee passengers greater protection."

Luxembourg is also the only country that has not yet set up a body to ensure that the regulation is applied properly, the EC said.

"I am determined to ensure that the new passenger rights are respected," stated EC VP Jacques Barrot, who is responsible for transport. "All the member states must have effective penalties which can be applied to airlines which do not meet their obligations."

by Perry Flint
ATWOnline