No one has probably ever accused the U.S. government of overstating airline passengers’ rights. Quite the contrary: The government and the airline industry are usually close allies. And the current administration is crazy about the airline industry, showering it with generous subsidies, tax breaks and favorable rules.
But that’s not the case across the pond, where the European Commission has released leaflets, posters and a video presentation on air passenger rights that apparently went a little too far, at least according to P. Nikiforos Diamandouros, the European ombudsman.
Diamandouros’ ruling is the result of a formal complaint by two airline trade associations. They said the information provided by the commission on the rights of travelers to compensation and assistance in the event of denied boarding, cancellation of flights or long delays, was misleading. The information suggested that passengers were entitled to immediate compensation for any delay or cancellation, when, in fact, the rule only applied to specific circumstances.
I think the ombudsman is right, but I’m also pleased that the EC sided with its citizens — even if it was a bit overzealous.
Maybe there’s a lesson there for our government, which rolls over whenever the Air Transport Association wants something.
Christopher Elliott is the author of Scammed: How to Save Your Money and Find Better Service in a World of Schemes, Swindles, and Shady Deals. Critics have called it “eye-opening” and “inspiring” — it’ll “grab your attention and won’t let go.” Order your copy now on Amazon, Barnes & Noble or iTunes.
Elliott is consumer advocate 
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