EU seeks better passenger rights

[March 13, 2013]  BRUSSELS (AP) -- The European Union is considering beefed up measures for stranded passengers to get compensation and find quicker ways to get home.

EU Transport Commissioner Siim Kallas said Wednesday that a new package with improved measures would also boost carriers from the 27 member nations in global competition since consumers would be drawn to companies offering the best conditions.

Under the proposals, Kallas said that if carriers cannot reroute passengers themselves within 12 hours 'they must find another airline' or other transportation, tightening the deadline and forcing them to even consider booking on competing companies.

Kallas' proposals now will be taken up by the European parliament and the 27 member nations.

[Associated Press]

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