After more than two years of the corona pandemic, the desire to travel is greater than ever. However, the chaos at the airport spoils the anticipation of the long-awaited vacation. But what are travelers entitled to if their connection is delayed, canceled or if their luggage does not arrive?
Finally a few relaxing days, shaking off the stresses and strains of quarantine, homeschooling and working from home. Were it not for the consequences of the pandemic, which have led to staff shortages in the tourism sector. For example at the airports: ground staff, baggage handlers or flight attendants have found a new job and do not think about returning to their old job, which was usually fairly well paid.
In addition, there is the – constructive – corona summer wave, which leads to absenteeism and further staff shortages. The result: chaos at European airports, including at home. Long queues, long delays, canceled flights or days of waiting for luggage. For many people, the long-awaited start to the holidays becomes a grueling test of nerves.
Desperate passenger inquiries are on the rise
“We are noticing how the investigations are skyrocketing. Those affected are desperate,” confirms Gernot Fieber of the Upper Austrian Chamber of Workers, team leader for consumer protection, travel and health. The expert has tips for getting your rights as a customer: “If a flight is cancelled, the airline has to reimburse the costs. The problem is often that online platforms intervene and bookings are made as cheaply as possible via the internet.”
He recommends direct bookings with the airlines or through a travel agency, adding: “For destinations with connecting flights, always book with one provider.”
Compensation for a three hour delay
From a delay of three hours, customers are entitled to financial compensation under the Air Passenger Rights Ordinance. The amount depends on the length of the delay and the distance to the destination. If the suitcase doesn’t arrive at the vacation destination, the expert says, the daily necessities can be bought: “Keep the bills and then submit them to the airline,” says Fieber, who recommends getting travel insurance. “This is also possible after a booking has already been made.”
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
