Almost half of Irish air passengers do not know their rights and entitlements in the event of flight disruption.
A survey conducted by Amárach Research on behalf of the Irish Aviation Authority found that 33% of people were not sure about their rights, while 14% had no idea.
The survey found that 53% of people were aware of their passenger rights, though.
The Irish Aviation Authority said that, while significant disruption to flights was uncommon, it was important that people knew their entitlements in such an event.
“If your flight is delayed you’re entitled to meals, refreshments, hotel accommodation if necessary,” said Clare Mulcahy, head of consumer affairs at the IAA. “You may be due compensation up to €600 if your flight is cancelled, you have the choice of a refund or a re-route plus care and assistance while you’re waiting.”
Ms Mulcahy noted, however, that those requirements do not apply where the disruption is out of the control of the airline – for example as a result of bad weather or air traffic control strikes.
She also said it was important for passengers to know that they had a right to assistance from their airline if, for example, they had issues with mobility.
Ms Mulcahy encouranged travellers to hold onto any documentation they have from their booking and, if there is an issue, to first contact their airline.
If they are not satisfied with their response, they can make a complaint to the IAA for any flights that departed or arrived at Irish airports.
She said the authority was able to secure €1m in compensation for passengers last year alone.
