§ Mr. Robert BanksTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what steps he is prepared to take to secure passenger comfort and redress against protracted delays and inconvenience for those travelling on package holidays by air.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyAt a conference held by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State last November to analyse air traffic congestion, airport authorities were asked to develop contingency plans to cope with delayed passengers. A number of important initiatives were proposed which were reported to a follow-up conference held by the Civil Aviation Authority in March. These included improved communications and passenger information within airports, additional accommodation and facilities, and the provision of entertainment. Plans are also being developed to provide passengers with advance information about delayed flights.
Whether or not holidaymakers who suffer protracted delays are entitled to redress will depend on the terms of their contract with the tour operator and on any scales of compensation the tour operator may publish. It would ultimately be for the civil courts to resolve any disputed claim for compensation in respect of delays in the light of all the circumstances. It is possible for holidaymakers to take out insurance against protracted delays in certain circumstances.