The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) is demanding the European Commission re-examines its compensation legislation in the wake of the volcanic ash cloud.
The council said while it was right to initially ban flights when the cloud commenced, the ban then went on for too long while the governments of affected countries also failed to properly consult those worst affected – airlines and tour operators.
It also believes travel companies are now suffering disproportionately as consumers seek compensation for their missed flights and other expenses incurred as a result of the cloud.
Jean-Claude Baumgarten, the WTTC’s president and chairman, said: “While passengers should certainly be reimbursed for out-of-pocket expenses, the fallout of the volcanic ash cloud is unduly impacting an industry that is already subject to excessive regulation and taxation.
“This situation originated from force majeur and not as a result of mismanagement by airlines and tour operators. We believe it is time the EC recognise this and re-examine how the legislation is applied in such circumstances.
“Tourism is being hit with a double whammy: the loss of business as planes were grounded and now the cost of reimbursing passengers.
“With evidence that some operators – particularly small and medium sized enterprises which make up more than three-quarters of the industry – are struggling financially this year, it is an unwanted and unwarranted burden.
“We cannot help but think tourism is being punished for circumstances not of its making.”