Possible new lost luggage laws for EU

Regulators are improved oversight of airlines and airports regarding lost passenger luggage.

Travel Insurance News - 30/07/2009

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In its campaign to strengthen airline passenger rights, the European Commission is planning to propose that each EU member country establish an organisation to oversee lost and damaged luggage and the enforcement of rules related to compensation. The commission, which is the regulatory arm of the EU, indicated that it may also seek to increase passenger compensation for lost or damaged bags to as much as 1,100 euros.

The plans by the commission were announced along with the results of its recent survey that found 13 bags lost for every 1,000 passengers flying on the main European airlines during the period of November 2008 through March 2009. This was a loss of approximately one bag for every 64 airline passengers.

“It’s a serious problem,” said the European Transport Commissioner Antonio Tajani, adding: “We have to act.” New legislation will be proposed by the commission next year, which would require approval of the European Parliament and the support of the 27 member nations.

The work to bolster airline passenger rights follows European airline deregulation. During the last five years, the EU has increased compensation for passengers stranded due to overbooked or cancelled flights and required that free assistance at airports be available for disabled passengers.

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