New EU Package Travel Directive to Come into Effect July 2018

Greek travel agents should be aware that as of July 1 a new EU directive will take effect aiming to achieve consumer protection for package travel and linked travel arrangements.

The Federation of Hellenic Associations of Tourist & Travel Agencies (fedHATTA) has announced that it will hold a series of seminars and workshops on the regulation in order to answer queries, clarify requirements and present model contracts, while highlighting options that may be accommodated under existing licensing.

The goal of the new directive is to ensure additional legal protection for consumers purchasing non-traditional travel packages, particularly in view of the increasing activity of online travel websites.

Indicatively, under the new regulation travel operators preparing package deals for clients involving two or more travel arrangements will be responsible for all elements within the package including failure by suppliers to refund payment.

Annex 1: Distinction between combined travel arrangements, pre-arranged packages and linked travel arrangements (all covered by the new Directive). Source: European Commission

Consumers can under the said regulation cancel any trip in case of “unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances” and get a full refund.

A package deal is as of July 1 considered a plan involving two or more travel components as well as liability, which may translate into higher costs.

In addition, a new concept – linked travel arrangement – will also be introduced under the regulation.

A key change to current legislation has to do with information provided to customers ahead of sales. Agents must ensure customers have a document detailing the type of sale, customer’s rights, and a link to regulations.

For more on EU Directive 2015/2302 on package travel and linked travel arrangements click here.