“The accident investigation process is one of our most important learning tools when building global safety standards. But to learn from an accident, we need reports that are complete, accessible and timely,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

The requirements of the Convention of International Civil Aviation (Chicago Convention) Annex 13 are clear. States in charge of an accident investigation must:

• Submit a preliminary report to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) within 30 days of the accident.
• Publish the final report, that is publicly available, as soon as possible and within 12 months of the accident.
• Publish interim statements annually should a final report not be possible within 12 months.

Only 96 of the 214 accident investigations during the period 2018-2022 conform with the requirements of the Chicago Convention. Just 31 reports were published in less than one year of the accident with the majority (58) taking between 1–3 years. In addition to the fact that final reports regularly take more than a year, interim statements often provide little more than what was presented in the preliminary report.

“Over the past five years, fewer than half of the required accident reports meet the standards for thoroughness and timeliness. This is an inexcusable violation of requirements stated clearly in the Chicago Convention. As an industry we must raise our voice to governments in defense of the accident investigation process enshrined in Annex 13. And we count on ICAO to remind states that the publication of a complete accident report is not optional, it is an obligation under Annex 13 of the Chicago Convention,” said Walsh.

The article IATA urges states to provide timely, thorough and public accident reports first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

“We are very happy that we were able to showcase the new main entrance, complete with giant LED wall, for the very first time at the radiology congress in March. And the living green walls were ready in time for the Geosciences Congress in May,” confirmed Managing Director Congress Management and Management Board Spokesperson Susanne Baumann-Söllner.

“Extensive modernisations have been going on at the venue since 2019. We were able to carry out all the work without interrupting operations. And with the completion of the main entrance, we have now successfully completed all of the exterior remodelling,” added Michael Rotter, Managing Director responsible for Construction Services, Property and Project Management. The construction costs for the new main entrance amounted to 7 million euros.

LED wall, green walls, new stairways and lift groups

Besides completion of the new main entrance that connects the square in front of the main building with the entrance hall (completed in 2022), the stairways leading to the parking decks have also been renewed and four new elevators installed to facilitate smooth and barrier-free arrival and departure. The entrance area’s new trademark is a 90-square-meter LED wall, which can be used to display bespoke content that is tailored to the individual event. To the left and right, a pair of green walls – including automated irrigation system for the suspended plants – frame the entrance. “A glance at the new facade sums up our focus for the years to come: digitalisation is opening up completely new possibilities in the event sector, while offering sustainable events is at least as important. In the long term, our goal is to make sure that all of the events held at the Austria Center Vienna take place as green meetings,” Baumann-Söllner announced.

Events: closing in on pre-crisis level

A look back at the 2022 financial year also paints an encouraging picture. After very few ecoronavirus pandemic, things quickly picked up pace last year. In 2022, a total of 61,700 international participants visited the Austria Center Vienna, mainly due to a very strong summer and autumn season which saw totals recover to around two-thirds of the 2019 total (91,500 international participants). And at 13 million euros, revenue from events only just fell short of the 2019 result (13.2 million euros). “There is a very clear desire for in-person events that offer a genuine event experience and opportunities for personal exchange after two years shaped by the crisis. For this year, we expect fresh increases both in terms of participant numbers and revenue, and we’re optimistic about our chances of actually surpassing the figures for 2019,” Baumann-Söllner concluded.

The article Austria Center Vienna completes exterior renovation first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

Wine tourism is a growing segment of the global tourism industry, driven by increasing interest in wine and unique travel experiences. Popular destinations include traditional wine-producing regions like France, Italy, Spain, and the United States, as well as New World wine regions. Wine tourism offers a range of experiences such as winery tours, tastings, festivals, and workshops.

It has a significant economic impact, contributing to job creation and local business growth. Wine regions are investing in tourism infrastructure to enhance the visitor experience. Wine education and sustainability are important aspects of wine tourism. While the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the industry, it is expected to regain momentum as travel restrictions ease.

2018 to 2022 Global Wine Tourism Market Outlook Compared to 2023 to 2033 Forecast

The future outlook for the wine tourism market appears promising, with several factors shaping its growth. As travel restrictions ease post-pandemic, there is an expected recovery in the tourism industry, including wine tourism which is expected to grow at a 13.1% CAGR. Travelers are increasingly seeking authentic and experiential travel experiences, driving the demand for immersive wine tourism offerings. Emerging wine regions in countries like China, India, and Eastern Europe are gaining attention. Sustainability and responsible tourism practices are becoming more important, and wineries are adopting eco-friendly measures.

Technology and digital platforms are likely to play a larger role in enhancing the wine tourism experience. Niche and specialized segments within the market may emerge to cater to specific interests. Collaboration and partnerships between wineries, tour operators, and tourism boards can create comprehensive wine tourism experiences. However, it’s important to consider that market dynamics can be influenced by various factors, and the actual trajectory of the wine tourism market may differ from projections.

Comparative View of the Adjacent Wine Tourism Market

The peer or ancillary markets in the travel and tourism sector are expected to have an impact on the global Wine tourism business. These include the special interest and Food Tourism markets. Future Market Insights’ study of these connected industries revealed insightful findings that will be useful in creating distinctive differentiated strategies to pursue opportunity and success.

Key Dynamics in Wine Tourism Market Worldwide

• Wine Education and Experiential Learning: Wine tourists have a strong desire to deepen their knowledge and appreciation of wine. They seek educational experiences that provide insights into various aspects of winemaking, grape varieties, and wine tasting skills. Wineries have responded to this demand by offering educational programs, workshops, and guided tours. These experiences allow visitors to learn about the winemaking process, from vine to bottle, and gain a better understanding of the factors that contribute to wine quality and taste. Participants may have the opportunity to engage with winemakers, explore vineyards, and even participate in grape harvesting or wine blending activities. These educational experiences enhance visitors’ wine knowledge and create a deeper connection to the wine they enjoy.
• Promotional Efforts by Wine Regions: Wine regions are actively promoting their offerings and investing in wine tourism infrastructure to attract tourists and showcase their unique wine heritage. They recognize the economic and cultural value of wine tourism and the positive impact it can have on local communities. Wine regions organize wine festivals, events, and tastings to showcase their wines and attract visitors. They create wine trails, routes, or maps that guide tourists through the region, highlighting different wineries and vineyards along the way. Visitor centers and wine museums are established to provide information and serve as starting points for wine tourism experiences. These promotional efforts by wine regions aim to create a compelling and enticing destination for wine tourists, fostering local businesses and contributing to the overall growth of the wine tourism market.
• Seasonal and Weather Dependence: Wine tourism is influenced by seasonal and weather conditions, which can impact the availability of certain activities and visitor numbers. The timing of the grape harvest and winemaking seasons varies by region, and tourists may plan their visits to coincide with these periods to experience the excitement and energy of the grape harvest or participate in winemaking activities. However, this also means that certain activities may only be available during specific times of the year, limiting the options for wine tourists outside of these seasons. Additionally, unfavourable weather conditions such as heavy rains, frosts, or extreme heat can impact vineyard operations and potentially disrupt travel plans. These seasonal and weather dependencies can pose challenges for wine tourists in terms of planning their trips and experiencing specific activities.

France is considered as the Wine Capital of the World

France is renowned for its wine and attracts a significant number of wine tourists. Regions such as Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne are particularly popular. Wine tourism in France offers a rich cultural experience, with visitors having the opportunity to explore historic vineyards, participate in tastings and cellar tours, and indulge in gourmet cuisine paired with local wines. The country has well-established wine routes and organized tours, making it easy for tourists to navigate and explore the diverse wine regions. The France wine tourism market contributed a significant share of 10.5% in the global market in 2022.

United States Offers a Diverse Landscape for Wine Enthusiasts

The United States boasts several prominent wine regions, including Napa Valley, Sonoma County, and Willamette Valley. Wine tourism in the U.S. offers diverse landscapes, from rolling vineyards to picturesque wineries. Visitors can enjoy tastings, vineyard tours, and culinary experiences. Wineries often provide educational opportunities to learn about the winemaking process and varietals specific to each region. Wine festivals and events, such as the Aspen Food and Wine Classic and the Oregon Wine Country Thanksgiving, also attract wine tourists. United States dominated the market with a share of 17.1% in 2022.

Australian Wine Tourism Market Gaining Prominence throughout the Globe

Australia’s wine tourism industry has flourished, with regions such as Barossa Valley, Margaret River, and Hunter Valley attracting both domestic and international visitors. Australian wine regions offer stunning landscapes, cellar door tastings, and guided tours that provide insights into the country’s diverse wine production. Visitors can also engage in activities like blending sessions, wine and food pairings, and hot air balloon rides over vineyards.

Category -wise Insights

The Prominent Age Group in Wine Tourism is 46-55 Years

The prominent age group in wine tourism tends to be the 46-55 age group, along with the over 55 age group which contributed 23.1% and 19.2% respectively in 2022. These age groups typically have more disposable income, are interested in culinary and cultural experiences, and may have developed a deeper appreciation for wine over time. They often have more flexibility in their schedules and may prioritize leisure travel, including wine tourism, as a way to relax and indulge in their interests. However, it’s worth noting that wine tourism can attract visitors from a wide range of age groups, and preferences can vary based on individual interests and circumstances.

Group Tours Dominates the Global Wine Tourism Market

The dominant segment in wine tourism on the basis of tour type can vary, but generally, group travels tend to be the most prominent. Group travels involve organized tours where a group of individuals travel together with shared itineraries and activities. They offer convenience and structure, making it easier for participants to visit wineries and enjoy wine-related experiences.

However, individual travel and professional groups also play significant roles in wine tourism, with independent travelers exploring wine regions on their own and professionals engaging in wine-related events and educational activities. The preference for a specific tour type depends on factors such as the destination, target audience, and the nature of the wine tourism experience being offered.

Online Channel is Gaining Traction in the Global Market

There are strict norms that are incorporated by the government for the protection of infrastructure of Wine areas and thus it is less likely that the tourist can have any in-person experience before actually visiting the place. Tourists as prefer online booking before booking the place they can go through the details and description of the place they can also avail of special discount offers available for the group.

Online bookings can be done for travel tickets, hotels and accommodations, stays, and other services availed while on tour. These bookings are done through online portals, airlines, and hotel websites and it is the most preferred booking channel when Wine tourism is concerned. The Segment is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 13.3% during the forecast period.

Competitive Landscape

The wine tourism market has a diverse and competitive landscape, with various players contributing to its growth and development. Wineries and vineyards play a significant role by offering tours, tastings, and wine-related experiences. Wine tour operators curate itineraries and provide expert guides, while travel agencies and tour operators collaborate with local wineries to offer comprehensive wine-focused travel packages. Wine tourism associations and organizations support industry stakeholders through resources and collaborative initiatives.

For instance: Tour operators such as Wine Paths, Zephyr Tours, and BK Wine Tours offer special travel packages for exotic wine destination countries such as France, Italy, Spain, and United States.

The article FMI analysts view: Why is France a popular destination among wine tourists? first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

The IATA AGM is a premier event in the aviation industry, bringing together influential leaders, industry experts, and stakeholders from around the globe. This year’s event promises to be a platform for engaging discussions, collaborative initiatives, and insightful sessions that shape the future of aviation.

As a trusted source of industry news, analysis, and thought leadership, Aviation-Event will be actively engaged throughout the event, providing comprehensive coverage, interviews, and highlights from the IATA AGM. With a dedicated team of aviation professionals, the platform aims to offer its readers an in-depth understanding of the key discussions, trends, and
innovations shaping the industry.

Aviation-Event’s presence at the IATA AGM 2023 will facilitate valuable networking opportunities with industry professionals, decision-makers, and experts. The team will be actively seeking out engaging conversations, exploring emerging trends, and capturing the pulse of the aviation community.

Marcel Riwalsky, CEO, Aviation-Event, stated: “We are thrilled to participate in the IATA AGM 2023, one of the most significant events in the aviation calendar.” Our goal is to provide our readers with unparalleled coverage and insights into the discussions and developments happening at the AGM. We look forward to connecting with industry leaders and contributing to the dialogue that shapes the future of aviation.”

Aviation-Event is a leading media platform dedicated to providing the latest news, analysis, and insights in the aviation industry. With a team of passionate aviation professionals, the platform aims to promote thought leadership, foster dialogue, and connect the global aviation community. Through its website, social media channels, and events, Aviation-Event delivers valuable content to a diverse audience of industry professionals, and decision-makers.

The article Aviation-Event participates in IATA AGM 2023, showcasing industry insights and thought leadership first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

Launched late last year, the Vibe Corporate Plus service is a ‘consumer-grade’, Multi channel content, complete business travel booking tool that TMCs can offer to their users. Vibe Corporate Plus offers an entirely customizable solution that is built to the requirements of the TMC.

By implementing the Vibe Corporate Plus service, Travel Counsellors who sell corporate travel will have the ability to grow, expand and scale their already successful businesses with a human touch by: growing their client base, and implementing complex travel policies and multi level approval – all whilst benefitting from multi-channel content including air, hotel, rail and car products.

Typical corporate clients of Travel Counsellors tend to be in the SME sector and whilst often serviced by just one business owner, many Travel Counsellors now choose to work in ‘TC teams’ to support their clients as well as their business growth aspirations. The company is on track to hit over £220m in corporate travel sales by the end of 2023.

Martin Eade, Chief Commercial Officer at Vibe comments: “We have long been admirers of the success of Travel Counsellors based upon its entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to the counsellors model – so we are enormously excited to be giving their corporate counsellors a foot-up with our technology and continue outperforming in what remains a very competitive space.”

Kieran Hartwell, Managing Director of Corporate Travel at Travel Counsellors adds: “We are committed to providing our Travel Counsellors with the most innovative and constantly evolving tools and technology to build their businesses in a way that suits them, with limitless potential and scale. So after some careful consideration we felt that the Vibe Corporate technology was just ideal for our community helping them to further deliver the very best personalised and bespoke service for their clients.”

The article Travel Counsellors to grow corporate business with Vibe technology first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

Reduction of problematic single use plastics products (SUPP) and improving the circularity in the use of plastics by the industry is the initial focus of the partnership as UNEP leads global efforts to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment, by the end of 2024.

Making aircraft cabins more sustainable is a priority for airlines and their passengers. The complex and asymmetrical regulatory environment, however, often poses an obstacle by preventing circular economy best practices. In the absence of a global approach, differing regulations at both ends of a journey severely limit the actions that airlines can take.

IATA advocates for a simplified and harmonized regulatory environment that would enable a reduction in plastic utilization and greater reuse, and recycling of cabin waste, including plastics, where they are needed. To this end, the partnership will step-up IATA’s engagement with UNEP to ensure that aviation’s unique challenges and opportunities are represented in the upcoming international legally binding agreement to end plastic pollution.

Already, IATA and UNEP are working on joint guidance on Re-thinking Plastics in Aviation. This comprehensive resource will encompass an overview of regulations, guidance on SUPP replacement, and recommended best practices for both industry and regulators.

“World Environment Day reminds us that sustainability is our number one global challenge. Formalizing IATA’s longstanding collaboration with UNEP will help airlines move even faster on improving the sustainability of the aircraft cabin. It’s critical that we achieve a harmonized global regulatory framework to enable airlines to implement more comprehensive and common circular economic solutions in all markets. For example, currently our hands are tied with outdated regulations focused on incineration rather than reuse and recycling. Modernizing that will be a big step forward for sustainability,” said Marie Owens Thomsen, IATA’s SVP Sustainability and Chief Economist.

“UNEP is looking forward to working with IATA, to helping the industry transition to net zero, reduce food waste and move away from SUPP. The aviation industry can also help by raising awareness among passengers and staff, and ensure that all stakeholders of the aviation value chain are engaged, and most importantly act in a joined-up way to end plastic pollution,” said Sheila Aggarwal-Khan, Director of UNEP’s Industry and Economy Division.

More than 400 million tonnes of plastic is produced every year, half of which is designed to be used only once. Of that, only nine percent is recycled, with the pollution it generates making it extremely urgent that global action is taken.

Under this partnership, IATA and UNEP also plan to work together on knowledge sharing, guidance and networking in other key sustainability challenges including sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), sustainable finance, climate adaptation, biodiversity conservation including preventing wildlife trafficking and sustainable tourism.

The article IATA and UNEP to address key environmental challenges in aviation including single-use plastics first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

The arrival of the 186-seat Airbus A320 means easyJet now bases nine A320 family aircraft at Edinburgh Airport, demonstrating the airline’s long-term commitment to Scotland by providing more great value choice, offering 70 routes across 17 countries in Europe, the Middle East and North Africa. The airline will operate its largest ever flying programme from Scotland this summer and is set to operate 6.3 million seats to and from Scotland, around a million more than summer 2019.

Last Friday the airline launched its inaugural flight on a brand new summer route from Edinburgh to Catania in Italy, with the new service now operating up to twice a week on Mondays and Fridays throughout the summer. Flights to Antalya in Turkey also took off for the first time on Saturday 3 June, operating twice weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Both routes will provide customers in Scotland with even more choice when planning their summer getaway, whether they want to relax by crystal clear waters or discover some of Europe’s most charming cities.

The new routes means that holidaymakers from Edinburgh wanting to explore Catania or Antalya can do so with easyJet holidays. From luxury all-inclusive resorts, to family-friendly self-catered apartments, there’s something for everyone. And, there’s 23kg of luggage per person, flights, hotel and transfers included on all beach packages.

Ali Gayward, easyJet’s UK Country Manager, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming the arrival of our ninth aircraft in Edinburgh today and to be celebrating the launch of our new summer routes to Catania and Antalya, which is a testament to our continued success and commitment to our customers by providing greater choice and direct connectivity to more of the fantastic destinations Europe has to offer, for what will be our biggest ever summer in Scotland.

“We are proud to be the largest airline in Scotland and the expansion of our fleet and strengthening of our network at Edinburgh demonstrates our confidence in the resilient strength of demand for travel in the UK, with customers choosing us for our trusted brand, unrivalled network and great value fares and we can’t wait to welcome more customers on board.”

Kate Sherry, Chief Commercial Officer (Aero) said: “It’s great to see the new routes to Catania and Antalya commence as both offer something very different to our passengers, ensuring we are offering choice of destination and experience where we can. We love to provide excitement to and a sense of adventure to people looking to get away and we know offering them a variety of destinations is something that provides that.

“The basing of another aircraft at Edinburgh to expand easyJet’s presence to nine at Scotland’s airport really demonstrates the airline’s commitment to growth in the capital. We are always looking to use the latest aircraft with the most modern technology and four A320s delivers that, and we look forward to working with each other to provide more choice for passengers where we can.”

On 24 November 1995 easyJet’s first ever flight to Edinburgh took off from London Luton and since then the airline has remained committed to the airport by maintaining a continuous operation. Today, easyJet is the largest in Scotland, and since launching operations nearly 30 years ago has flown over 105 million customers to and from the four Scottish airports it serves and offers 70 routes across Europe, North Africa and the Middle East.

The article easyJet celebrates arrival of ninth aircraft at Edinburgh Airport first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

The inaugural flights received an official welcome at John Paul II Airport, located 11 kilometres west from the centre of Kraków, and at Varna Airport, located only seven kilometres from the centre of that city.

“Tourists who love exploring European metropolises will definitely be pleased by our new scheduled flights to Kraków. Now they have the opportunity to arrive in one of the oldest cities in Poland in just two hours on comfortable Air Serbia airplanes. Neighbouring Bulgaria also offers many interesting vacation spots. One that stands out is Varna, often called the “sea capital of Bulgaria”. We will be flying to the city on the Black Sea throughout the summer season. Maybe our direct flights between Belgrade and Varna will prompt travellers to opt for this Bulgarian city when choosing their holiday destination,” said Boško Rupić, General Manager Commercial and Strategy, Air Serbia.

During your stay in Krakow, do not miss the imposing gothic domes of St. Mary’s Basilica, or Rynek Główny, the biggest medieval square in Europe. Make sure to buy some souvenirs at the old Cloth Hall shopping mall, often claimed to be the oldest in the world, and try traditional sausages and home-brewed beverages at one of the bars or restaurants. Above the old town is the Town Hall Tower, which dates back to the 15th century and provides an amazing panoramic view.

Passengers will have excellent connections from Kraków, via Belgrade, with Ankara, Athens, Bucharest, Istanbul, Larnaca, Ljubljana, Naples, Podgorica, Rome, Sofia, Thessaloniki, Tivat, Zagreb and other cities in the Air Serbia network.

The largest city in northeastern Bulgaria, Varna, is located on the coast of the Black Sea and Lake Varna. In addition to numerous cultural landmarks, a special curiosity is the fact that the oldest processed gold in the world is kept in the Archaeological Museum of the city. The Varna region is known for its clean sea, fine sand, and pleasant climate.

From Varna, via Belgrade, passengers will have good connectivity to a large number of destinations in the network of Air Serbia, such as Amsterdam, Vienna, Berlin, Bologna, Zurich, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Copenhagen, Ljubljana, New York, Oslo, Podgorica, Prague, Rome, Venice, and Zagreb.

The article Air Serbia commences direct flights to Krakow and Varna first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

“We are proud to introduce Novotel Living in Batumi offering extended stay services with the high standards of an international brand to our guests wishing to experience longer stays, while feeling at home wherever they are in the world. Batumi is the heart of the Georgian Adjara, a modern resort with mild subtropical climate and rapidly growing tourist infrastructure. It has potential to become a perfect venue for international tourism, business and sport events. We are confident that Novotel Living Batumi, equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable stay, will become popular among international guests and local residents thanks to its warm and homely atmosphere in such a picturesque place. We are grateful to our partners Mardi Holding for cooperation and are looking forward to implementing this new ambitious project,” Alexis Delaroff, Chief Operating Officer of Accor New East Europe notes.

Novotel Living Batumi will open on Iberia Street, located in the recreational area of Batumi on the Black Sea coast, within walking distance from a well-equipped private beach. Thanks to the unique combination of a healing microclimate and subtropical vegetation, guests will be able to escape the city hustle and relax in the lap of nature at any time of year. The new hotel will be located in close proximity to the most popular tourist attractions such as the Petra Fortress, the Batumi Botanical Garden and the Mtirala National Park, and just 15 minutes by car from the vibrant city center with trendy restaurants and bars.

The hotel will occupy a new building with two blocks and 13 floors each. Novotel Living will implement a “strata title” concept when rooms are owned and rented out, while the infrastructure is managed by the hotel operator. Novotel Living Batumi will offer 319 apartments of different categories – from executive studios to two- and three-bedroom cozy and functional suites with stylish furniture, featuring everything necessary for a comfortable stay. Guests planning longer stays can use fully equipped kitchen with modern appliances and in-room laundry facilities, as well as a soundproofed work area with a free Wi-Fi access.

The hotel’s infrastructure will include thoughtful public spaces that create a co-living atmosphere, a gastronomic restaurant and a 24-hour lobby bar. Guests will enjoy a recreation area with an infinity pool and a panoramic restaurant on the roof of the hotel offering breathtaking views of the Black Sea coast and the mountains. Novotel Living Batumi will also feature a SPA center with a swimming pool and a modern fitness room, as well as several conference rooms equipped with everything necessary for big events and business meetings. The new hotel will offer a comfortable recreation area with a playground for children and animation program throughout the day.

“Mardi Holding is delighted to launch a world-class serviced apartment project in Batumi in partnership with Accor, a global hotel operator. Ambitious plans to develop Georgia’s Black Sea coast and turn Batumi into one of the best seaside resorts in Europe support the market development and create great opportunities for launching high quality serviced apartments. Novotel Living is only the first brand from the Accor collection that we plan to bring to the market,” Nugzar Berishvili, Managing partner at Mardi Holding, comments.

Novotel Living Batumi is scheduled to fully open in 2025.

The article Accor and Mardi Holding to open Novotel Living Batumi on the Black Sea coast in Georgia first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

Whenever there is a delay or a cancellation, where specific passenger rights regulations exist, the burden of care and compensation falls on the airline, regardless of which part of the aviation chain is at fault. IATA therefore urged governments to ensure that responsibility for flight issues is shared more equitably across the air transport system.

“The aim of any passenger rights regulation surely should be to drive better service. So it makes little sense that airlines are singled out to pay compensation for delays and cancellations that have a broad range of root causes, including air traffic control failures, strikes by non-airline workers, and inefficient infrastructure. With more governments introducing or strengthening passenger rights regulations, the situation is no longer sustainable for airlines. And it has little benefit for passengers because it does not encourage all parts of the aviation system to maximize customer service. On top of this, as costs need to be recouped from passengers, they end up funding this system. We urgently need to move to a model of ‘shared accountability’ where all actors in the value chain face the same incentives to drive on-time performance,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

Economic deregulation of the airline industry has brought huge benefits over decades, increasing consumer choice, reducing fares, expanding route networks and encouraging new entrants. Unfortunately, a trend of re-regulation threatens to undo some of these advances. In the area of consumer protection, more than a hundred jurisdictions have developed unique consumer regulations, with at least a dozen more governments looking to join the group or toughen what they already have.

EU 261 needs to be reviewed

The Commission’s own data show that delays have increased since the existing EU 261 Regulation was introduced, even as the cost to airlines—and ultimately passengers—continues to balloon. It has become subject to more than 70 interpretations by the European Court of Justice, each of which serves to take the regulation further than originally envisaged by the authorities. The European Commission, along with the Council and Parliament, needs to revive the Revision of EU261 that was on the table before it was blocked by Member States. Any future discussions should address the proportionality of compensation and the lack of specific responsibilities for key stakeholders, such as airports or air navigation service providers.

Such a review is even more necessary when the EU Regulation is in danger of becoming a global template, with other countries, including Canada, the United States, and Australia, as well as some in Latin America and the Middle East, seeming to consider it a model, without recognizing that EU261 was never intended to address operational disruption and therefore does not apply equally to all actors in the aviation chain.

“In refusing to address the issue of distributing accountability more evenly across the system, EU261 has entrenched the service failings of some actors who have no inducement to improve. A classic example is the more than 20-year lack of progress toward the Single European Sky, which would significantly reduce delays and airspace inefficiency across Europe,” said Walsh.

An opportunity for the United Kingdom

With sensible reform of EU 261 stalled, the United Kingdom has an opportunity to incorporate some of the proposed revisions into the country’s post-Brexit model for passenger rights. Proper reform of ‘UK 261’ provides a gilt-edged opportunity for a genuine ‘Brexit dividend’ which the present pro-Brexit government should not ignore.

Canada is losing its reputation for good regulation

The situation in Canada is particularly disappointing because it has benefitted from a well-balanced regulatory regime up to now. An example is the explicit recognition of the primacy of safety, meaning that safety-related problems are not subject to compensation. Unfortunately, Canadian policymakers seem inclined to remove this important exception. Canada has also announced a “guilty until proven innocent” approach to airlines when there are delays or cancellations. These moves appear to be driven by internal Canadian party politics. Moreover, the government’s regulatory zeal appears to evaporate when it comes to holding government-run entities such as Border Services (CBSA) or Transport Security (CATSA) accountable for their performance.

One potential bright spot is that the National Airlines Council of Canada has put forward a model for shared accountabilities across the aviation value chain, including increased transparency, data reporting and service quality standards, an approach that could well have merit beyond Canada.

The United States—a solution in search of a problem

The US Department of Transportation is proposing to mandate compensation for delayed or cancelled flights when their own Cancellation and Delay Scoreboard shows that the 10 largest US carriers already offer meals or cash vouchers to customers during extended delays, and nine also offer complimentary hotel accommodation for passengers affected by an overnight cancellation. Effectively, the market is already delivering, while at the same time allowing airlines the freedom to compete, innovate and differentiate themselves in terms of their service offerings.

“It’s easy for a politician to regulate a new passenger rights law, it makes them look like they’ve achieved something. But every new unnecessary regulation is an anchor on the cost-efficiency and competitiveness of air transport. It takes a brave regulator to look at the situation and recognize when ‘less is more’. The history of this industry proves that less economic regulation unlocks greater choice and benefits for passengers,” said Walsh.

Passengers don’t agree there is an issue

There is little evidence passengers, outside of a few rare instances, are clamouring for stronger regulation in this area. An IATA/Motif survey of 4,700 travelers across 11 markets asked passengers how they were treated in the case of delays and cancellations. The survey found:

• 96% of travelers surveyed reported they were ‘very’ or ‘somewhat’ satisfied with their overall flight experience
• 73% were confident they would be treated fairly in the event of operational disruptions
• 72% said that in general airlines do a good job of handling delays and cancellations
• 91% agreed with the statement ‘All parties involved in the delay or cancellation (airlines, airports, air traffic control) should play a role in helping the affected passengers’

“The best guarantor of good customer service is consumer choice and competition. Travelers can and do vote with their feet if an airline – or indeed the entire aviation industry – doesn’t come up to scratch. Politicians should trust the public’s instinct and not regulate away the distinctive business models and choices available to travelers today,” said Walsh.

The article IATA: Aviation consumer protection regulation should address shared responsibilities first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.