As the new year draws in and we get ready to say goodbye to a turbulent year, Brexit is on the horizon. So, what does the UK’s departure from the EU mean for the rights of flight travellers?
From Euros to Pounds
There has been some welcome clarity concerning passenger rights law. We now know that people’s compensation and care and assistance rights will continue as they currently are, under UK law.
The only difference will be that those claiming compensation for delayed or cancelled flights will now be paid in Pounds rather than Euros as outlined in the table below.
| Flight Distance | Length Of Delay | Old Amount | New Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 1,500km | 3 hours or more | €250 | £220 |
| 1,500km-3,500km | 3 hours or more | €400 | £350 |
| Over 3,500km | 3-4 hours | €300 | £260 |
| Over 3,500km | More than 4 hours | €600 | £520 |
It is good for people to have the same level of protection as they’ve had
Coby Benson Flight Delay Compensation Solicitor at Bott and Co says: “This is great news for British travellers as they can rest assured knowing that they are protected if they face flight disruption which is not due to extraordinary circumstances, post-Brexit.
While we do sympathise with airlines, with the travel industry being one of the worst hit because of Covid-19, more flights will take to the skies again in next year, especially in the run up to and during the summer period.”
As people plan and look forward to much anticipated holidays in 2021, many of which were previously cancelled or rescheduled due to the coronavirus pandemic, it is good to have the same level of protection as before.
The news should give confidence to travellers once Britain officially leaves the EU and new rules come into effect from 1 January 2021.