MEP's frustration "erupts" over volcano compensation (North Cornwall Liberal Democrats)

North Cornwall Liberal Democrats <ncld@dsl.pipex.com>

MEP's frustration "erupts" over volcano compensation

August 18, 2010 12:00 AM
Originally published by Sir Graham Watson MEP

South West MEP Graham Watson has vowed to continue fighting for those constituents still awaiting reimbursement from airlines for costs incurred during the ash cloud disruption in April.

Under EU rules, passengers left stranded after a flight is cancelled are entitled to accommodation, refreshments and assistance in reaching their final destination. However, following the chaos, many are still out of pocket to the tune of hundreds of pounds, with some airlines refusing to pay up.

Watson has taken up the cases of numerous constituents and said;

"We fully understand that the Eyjafjöll eruption placed great administrative strain on airlines. However, at the time of the disruption the European Commission, national authorities and MEPs made clear to airlines that their responsibilities towards passengers remained unchanged. Like the volcano, this has now rumbled on for far too long, and it is time that airlines get their acts together."

Watson has been working with European Transport Commissioner Siim Kallas to secure action against KLM's stated policy of refusing to reimburse the costs of their passengers. Last week, KLM were issued with a formal warning from the Commission which, if disregarded, could lead to legal action.

Watson said;

"I was astonished when KLM told me that they had decided to ignore the Regulation and leave my constituent with bills of hundreds of pounds. I immediately contacted Commissioner Kallas and I am pleased he has now taken action on behalf of my constituent and other desperate KLM passengers.

"Airlines cannot pick and choose which rules they follow. The EU has given passengers certain rights and they must be respected.

"I will continue to work with the Commission to ensure that affected passengers of all airlines receive the compensation they are entitled to. I encourage anyone still struggling to secure reimbursement to contact me so I may take up their case."