
The EU transport ministers finalized an agreement on the EU Council’s negotiating mandate concerning passenger rights in air transport after 12 years during a meeting in Luxembourg. Slovenia, represented by Infrastructure Minister Alenka Bratušek, did not endorse the proposal put forth by the Polish presidency.
The new legislative framework aims to establish clearer and simpler rules for air passengers while balancing a high level of passenger rights protection with the necessity of maintaining connectivity and ensuring fair conditions for air carriers alongside other service providers, as announced by the EU Council following the meeting.
The Slovenian Ministry of Infrastructure clarified that Slovenia opposed the Polish compromise proposal regarding the EU Council’s negotiating mandate with the European Parliament.
The ministry pointed out that the suggested three-hour delay threshold for shorter flights and flights within the EU, which would entitle passengers to compensation, is a more effective measure shaped by case law. Slovenia believes it also serves as a better incentive for reducing delays in air transport.
During the meeting, Minister Bratušek also had discussions with European Commissioner for Transport and Tourism Apostolos Cicikostas, whom she invited to Slovenia. She highlighted the significance of rapid railway passenger connections for Slovenia in light of the upcoming EU action plan for high-speed rail, aimed at linking capitals and major cities with high-speed rail services.
The commissioner assured Slovenia of support in being included on the high-speed rail connection map, as reported by the ministry. (June 5)
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