Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 January 2025
228. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Transport the provisions in place to seek compensation from an airline where a person had to travel for serious family reasons at short notice, where the return flights were booked through a third-party operator and where the person in question had to bring the return date forward, as per aforementioned serious family reasons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1182/25]
View answerAir passenger rights are enshrined in EU law. Regulation (EC) No. 261/2004 sets out the rights and entitlements of airline passengers in instances of flight cancellations, delays and denied boarding. The regulation provides that passengers may be entitled to compensation for flight cancellations or specific lengths of long delay, unless the air carrier can prove the cancellation was caused by extraordinary circumstances. However, if a flight goes ahead and a customer cancels or simply does not use their ticket, unless the conditions of sale of the flight ticket provide otherwise, they are not entitled to a refund under EU law.
Generally, the contract between the airline and customers is bound by the terms and conditions set out at the time of booking with the airline or intermediary. Any intending passengers should make themselves aware of the terms and conditions of any bookings made, including terms and fees relating to flight changes and any other fees that may apply.
If the passenger holds personal travel insurance, they should review the terms of their policy as they may be able to claim for any losses.
Full information about air passenger rights and entitlements is available at the Commission’s dedicated passenger rights website www.iaa.ie/consumer-protection.
As the matter you describe is of a general consumer affairs nature, the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission at www.ccpc.ie may also be in a position to offer further advice.
