Government unveils plans to enhance protections for air passengers
The UK government has published new proposals to ensure stronger enforcement powers for the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), improved rights for disabled passengers and better access to dispute resolution. The proposals are part of the government’s response to its consultation on aviation consumer policy reform published in January 2022.
Under the new plans, the CAA will be granted stronger enforcement powers with regards to consumer protection law, including issuing fines for breaches.
UK rail industry launches ‘revolutionary’ carbon calculator
Business travellers using UK rail services will be able to see the environmental benefits of going by train when they book thanks to a new carbon calculator. The Rail Delivery Group (RDG), which represents UK train operators, has appointed sustainable travel specialist Thrust Carbon and rail data firm Fabrik to create a rail carbon calculator offering “detailed, accurate and reliable data” on the CO2 emissions of UK rail journeys at the point of sale.
This collaboration is the first time that detailed rail data – including engine type, fuel type, exact journey distance, occupancy and carriage layout – has been combined to assess the environmental impact of rail travel. The development of this rail carbon calculator is part of the rail industry’s Green Travel Pledge – a commitment to encourage more business travellers to take the train instead of more polluting travel alternatives like cars and planes. The Green Travel Pledge carbon calculator will be “gradually” rolled out later this year.
Heathrow security staff call off summer strikes
Security staff working at London Heathrow have cancelled a series of planned strikes this summer after agreeing to a pay deal with the airport. The Unite union, which represents 2,000 workers at Heathrow’s Terminal 3 and 5, originally planned to hold industrial action on 31 days between late June and the end of August during the busy summer peak season for travel.
The union had already cancelled the first planned two-day strike on 24-25 June after receiving the new pay offer from Heathrow, which workers have now voted to accept. The deal gives security workers a pay rise of between 15.5 per cent and 17 per cent.
Travel news as a glance:
Copenhagen airport boss appointed new CEO of Heathrow
Helsinki airport removes 100ml liquids in hand luggage rule
Malaysia Airlines to offer complimentary Wi-Fi for all business class passengers from July to December 2023
Gatwick’s North Terminal undergoes multi-million-pound redevelopment
GWR trials real-time service information on trains and at stations
Dublin airport completes new €200 million baggage system