The Airport Operator Association (AOA) has welcomed the publication of the Aviation Passenger Charter by the UK Government, with Karen Dee, AOA’s Chief Executive saying:
“The Aviation Passenger Charter provides passengers with a helpful overview of what they can expect throughout their travel, from booking to after they have arrived. This provides helpful clarity on what they should do at each stage of the journey as well as their rights and responsibilities.
“It also shows what airports are doing to support people on their journeys, as we prepare to welcome many passengers back for the first time since the start of the pandemic. It is a good example of how government and industry are working together to make this summer getaway a success.”
According to a government statement, the charter breaks down the passenger journey into stages from planning and booking a trip to travel to and through the airport, taking a flight, returning to the UK and special assistance. It also covers what passengers can reasonably expect from their airline, travel agent, tour operator and airport, especially if things go wrong.
UK Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “Passengers deserve reliable services and to be properly compensated if things don’t go to plan, and the chaotic scenes we’ve seen at airports are unacceptable.”
He added: “The new charter will help to give UK passengers peace of mind as they enjoy the renewed freedom to travel, whether for holidays, business or to visit loved ones.”
