Europe’s Travel Agents Urge Equal Treatment for All Passengers in New EU Multimodal Rights Regulation

Photo source: European Commission

The European Travel Agents’ and Tour Operators’ Association (ECTAA) has expressed strong concerns over the European Council’s proposed regulation on passenger rights for multimodal journeys.

While the regulation promises improved protections for travelers using multiple transport modes, ECTAA is alarmed by the exclusion of package travelers from key rights under the new framework.

The regulation, which was adopted Thursday, aims to enhance passenger protections for those combining various modes of transport, such as buses, trains, and planes, in a single journey. New rights will include access to information, assistance, re-routing, and reimbursement in case of disruptions. However, package travelers, who book a multimodal journey as part of a package deal, would be excluded from these crucial rights in cases of travel disruption, such as missed connections.

ECTAA, representing over 80,000 travel agents and tour operators across Europe, opposes this decision, arguing that it creates an unfair disparity between package travelers and those with seat-only tickets. Package travelers, under the current approach, would not have access to re-routing assistance, information about journey continuation, or even basic support like refreshments or accommodation when needed.

Frank Oostdam, President of ECTAA, expressed his disappointment: “This exclusion of package travelers from essential protections is deeply unfair. It creates a two-tier system that leaves package travelers vulnerable, particularly during travel disruptions. We urge the Council to reconsider this decision and ensure equal treatment for all passengers.”

ECTAA advocates for equal rights for all passengers, regardless of whether their multimodal ticket is part of a travel package or purchased directly from individual carriers. The association argues that travel operators, with their on-site presence at airports and stations, are best positioned to offer immediate assistance during disruptions.

The association calls on the Council to address these concerns in the ongoing discussions, aiming to ensure that all passengers receive the same level of support and protection under the new regulation.