Airlines fight EU ruling on compensation

AIRLINES are to mount a legal challenge to recent EU legislation which improves compensation for air travellers who experience delays, cancellations and overbookings to flights.

The European Court of Justice in Luxembourg will tomorrow hear submissions by representatives of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the European Low Fares Airlines Association seeking to overturn a new EU directive. Aer Lingus is one of about 270 airlines represented by the IATA, while Ryanair is one of the driving forces within the ELFAA.

Since February 17, air travellers are entitled to new levels of compensation from airlines for delays and cancellation on all flights either departing or arriving at an airport within the EU.