Budapest Government Office Responds to Airport Chaos and Flight Delays
Government Office of Budapest Focuses on Passenger Rights During Peak Tourist Season
As the peak tourist season approaches, the Government Office of the Capital City Budapest is placing particular emphasis on ensuring that airlines comply with rules regarding flight delays and cancellations. In a report by World Economy, the Government Office aims to inform passengers of their rights in the event of flight cancellations or significant delays of at least 2 hours, regardless of the reason for the disruption.
According to the guidelines provided by the Government Office, in the event of a flight cancellation, passengers are entitled to a refund if they are unable to travel or rebook to their original destination on the nearest available flight or a later flight that suits their needs. Additionally, if a passenger chooses to rebook, the airline must provide food and refreshments in reasonable proportion to the waiting time, as well as accommodation for overnight stays or transfers to and from the airport.
The summer season typically sees an increase in air passenger rights issues, with more consumer complaints than usual. The National Federation of Associations for Consumer Protection (FEOSZ) has received numerous requests indicating chaos at some European airports, leading to delays of up to 24 hours and multiple flight cancellations.
The Government Office emphasizes that if a flight cancellation is not caused by extraordinary circumstances such as technical faults or strikes by airline staff, passengers may be entitled to compensation ranging from EUR 250 to EUR 600 depending on the length of the flight. Extraordinary circumstances include dangerous weather conditions, air traffic control decisions, or flight cancellations due to bird strikes.
Furthermore, in the event of a significant delay in departure, airlines are obligated to provide passengers with supplies and assistance. If a flight departure is delayed by more than 5 hours, airlines must offer a refund of the ticket price if the passenger’s interest in traveling has ceased. Airlines are urged to pay special attention to the needs of passengers with reduced mobility, accompanying persons, and unaccompanied children.
Passengers are encouraged to request invoices for expenses incurred while waiting and seek reimbursement from the airline if they fail to provide necessary care and assistance. If passengers arrive at their final destination with a delay of over 3 hours, they may also be eligible for compensation.
Airlines are reminded to inform passengers of their rights in the event of delays or cancellations and to address passengers’ requests promptly. If airlines fail to do so, passengers can seek redress from the consumer protection authority.
Overall, the Government Office of Budapest is working to ensure that passengers’ rights are upheld during the busy tourist season, emphasizing the importance of timely information and support for travelers.
