Which? says govt’s new protections for air passengers ‘must go further’

It comes as the Department for Transport (DfT) announced on Tuesday (27 June) stronger enforcement powers for the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), as well as faster and cheaper dispute resolutions and improved rights for disabled travellers. 

Nevertheless, Which? policy director Rocio Concha said the government’s proposals don’t go far enough when it comes to protecting travellers. 

“The Prime Minister must now show he is on the side of passengers and urgently set out legislation to make these increased powers for the CAA a reality – ensuring the regulator has the power to fine airlines directly when they flout the law,” she said. 

According to Concha, giving the CAA the power to fine carriers will strengthen consumer confidence in the sector as well as ensure disabled passengers’ rights are enforced. 

The policy director also called on ministers to introduce a regulator in any legislation for alternative dispute resolutions to make sure “passengers are guaranteed a fair and impartial service”.