The Department for Transport has announced a consultation on major changes to flight rules that could see the end of the ‘14-day rule’ this summer, allowing airlines to switch passengers to different flights at the last minute without compensation. The move comes amid concerns over jet fuel supplies due to the ongoing Middle East crisis.
Under the proposed changes, carriers such as Ryanair, easyJet, Jet2, British Airways, Wizz Air UK and TUI would be permitted to consolidate passengers from multiple flights onto fewer planes on the same route and day. The DfT says this will reduce last-minute cancellations during potential disruption.
However, consumer group Which? has criticised the proposal. Rory Boland, Editor of Which? Travel, said: 'Existing rules already allow airlines to move customers to new flights so long as they give them more than 14 days’ notice and offer the choice between a new flight or a refund. It’s only for cancellations within 14 days that compensation is payable, rightly. It’s not fair for the rules to now be bent in favour of airlines and potentially leave passengers holding the bill.'
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander defended the plan, stating: 'There are no immediate supply issues, but we’re preparing now to give families long-term certainty and avoid unnecessary disruption at the departure gate this summer. This legislation will give airlines the tools to adjust flights in good time if they need to, which helps protect passengers and businesses.'
The UK Civil Aviation Authority’s Chief Executive, Rob Bishton, added: 'Passengers in the UK are well protected by some of the strongest rights in the world. Relaxing the rules around slots at airports will allow airlines more flexibility and so we expect them to give passengers as much notice as possible of cancellations during this period.' Passengers affected by changes are advised to contact their airline, travel agent or tour operator.
