A newly named Air Passenger Travel Guide has been released by the Department for Transport ahead of the October half-term holidays.
Aviation minister Baroness Vere has written to 30 airlines and operators to encourage the use of the guide on booking websites, so passengers have the information they need for their whole journey from the moment they book without the need to go searching.
Formerly known as the Aviation Passenger Charter, it details what people can expect from airlines, travel agents, tour operators and airports, and what do if things do not go to plan.
The advice also makes clear that while security checks are changing over the coming months, they should continue to be prepared to remove electronics and small liquids from their bags when travelling by air.
It includes advice on what consumers should do if flights are cancelled or delayed, if baggage goes missing, and the rights of disabled passengers, as well as guidance on how to complain if passengers feel they have been treated unfairly.
The guide also provides general advice for all aspects of the journey, such as what to expect at passport control, what can be brought through UK customs and how to manage connecting flights.
Passengers are aloes reminded to regularly check the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) website for the latest security and safety advice before booking travel, as well as what counts as an extraordinary circumstance, where compensation is not available.
As part of a regular review to ensure it remains as useful as possible for passengers, the guide will also soon contain British Sign Language and easy read versions and accessibility information, making it easier for disabled passengers to find out how to book assistance at the airport and on aircraft.
The minister said: “Whether going on holiday, travelling for business or visiting loved ones, we all want our journeys to be smooth and without any hiccups, which is why the Air Passenger Travel Guide is so important.
“Having a one-stop shop of information and advice, which is clear and concise, will help improve the overall travel experience and make sure passengers are getting what they deserve.”
Abta chief executive Mark Tanzer added: “There are lots of rights in place to protect people who are heading off on holiday, particularly if they are caught up in delays or cancellations.
“But your rights do vary depending on what you booked – with those on a package holiday enjoying greater protection.
“The Air Passenger Travel Guide gives a good outline of what travellers can expect and Abta is also on hand to guide our members’ customers and offer additional cover through the Abta Code of Conduct.”
Which? policy and advocacy director Rocio Concha said: “Though it is positive to see the DfT has relaunched its former aviation passenger charter to make it more accessible, the reality remains that there is little benefit in having a guide to your rights when there is no guarantee they will be enforced.
“Time and again we see airlines routinely ignoring their legal obligations when disruption occurs, knowing that they will face no meaningful repercussions.
“It is imperative that No.10 takes action to show it is on the side of beleaguered travellers, and commits to legislation to grant the CAA direct fining powers in the King’s Speech – only then will the travel rights and protections outlined in the new Air Passenger Travel Guide truly be worth the paper they’re written on.”