The European Parliament will debate revised legislation on 10 September strengthening traveller rights regarding information disclosure, cancellation procedures, refund entitlements, and repatriation protection when tour operators face bankruptcy or unforeseen circumstances disrupt holiday plans.
The updated directive addresses legal uncertainties exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic and incorporates lessons from the Thomas Cook collapse, with parliamentary voting scheduled for 11 September following committee discussions.
The Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee’s negotiating mandate supports Commission proposals clarifying package travel definitions whilst establishing harmonised voucher usage regulations.
COVID-19 travel restrictions created significant legal uncertainty affecting both travellers and tourism industry operators, particularly regarding legitimate cancellation grounds for organised travel during government-imposed limitations.
Parliamentary rapporteurs noted excessive complexity in distinguishing between travel packages and linked travel arrangements (LTAs), stating current definitions provide minimal added value whilst creating consumer protection ambiguity.
The explanatory statement emphasises vacation significance for European consumers: “There is nothing more pleasant than good holidays. For many Europeans, holidays are synonymous with purchasing organised travel.”
The rapporteur, representing a country attracting sun and culture-seeking visitors with significant tourism sector employment, expressed particular interest in package travel directive revisions.
Parliamentary starts commences 10 September, with formal voting scheduled the following day on measures designed to strengthen consumer protections based on pandemic-era experiences and major operator insolvencies.
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