MEP Josianne Cutajar has demanded that the European Commission takes action concerning various recent challenges in the air travel industry. The MEP noted that the situation that has developed during the last few weeks, with an increasing number of passengers experiencing a significant increase in ticket prices as well as long delays, lost luggage and last-minute cancellations of their flights, is worrying.
This is happening at a time when we are experiencing a sharp increase in travel demand and the workers in the sector are far less than they were before the pandemic hit. “This scenario poses several risks in relation to consumer protection, workers’ rights and the discouragement of tourists, which might also jeopardise the competitiveness of Europe as a tourist destination” said Dr Cutajar.
In light of all this, Dr Josianne Cutajar asked the Commission how it is engaging with stakeholders in the field, including airlines and operators, to address such a scenario, also in preparation for any future shocks, and whether a contingency plan is being drafted in this regard. The MEP also pushed the Commission to investigate the matter, thereby assessing both the fairness of practices and whether lack of staff can result in a lower level of safety for workers and passengers alike.
Lastly, MEP Cutajar demanded that the Commission also plans ahead when it comes to the protection of passengers from remote areas, including islands, which are at a geographical disadvantage when it comes to travel options. “These areas are also facing high ticket prices, and given that islanders depend upon air travel, this hampers their right to free movement even more”, concluded MEP Josianne Cutajar.