MEP Andreas Schieder (SPÖ) raises serious allegations against airports and airlines. The Austrian politician accuses the industry of accepting the current chaos and that neither the EU Commission nor the federal government would take any action.

“Just in time for the peak travel season, the motto at European airports is 'Rien ne va plus!' Flight cancellations, unsolicited rebookings, long waiting times, delays and uncooperative information policy; Those who want to travel by plane these days need strong nerves. But anyone who knows the industry and has followed media reports closely knows that the airlines marched into this summer of chaos with their eyes wide open. And the EU Commission watched, because the prominent market position of the major airlines was secured despite the consistent reduction in supply. There, the Corona aid in the billions was happily included, but at the same time staff were laid off and capacities reduced. It was clear, first and foremost to the airlines, that it would not be possible to cope with the expected high number of passengers. The combination of poor working conditions, outsourcing of staff and constant downward price competition lead to the chaos we now find in European airports. Consumers and employees are now suffering,” says Schieder.

The Austrian MEP sees the primary responsibility for the EU Commissioners Valean and Vestager, but also for Transport Minister Leonore Gewessler (Greens). The latter has repeatedly made it clear with unequivocal statements that it is opposed to short-haul flights and is promoting rail transport with a focus on night trains. Around two years ago, the government member announced minimum prices for flight tickets, but these have not yet been implemented. The controversial project, which has massive legal concerns, has meanwhile become very quiet.

With regard to the current flight chaos, Schieder raises the question of whether the conditions "were knowingly accepted because the expected profit exceeds the compensation". According to the Social Democrat, the competition authorities should take a close look at this question. He also demands that the compensation figures should be automated. Affected passengers currently have to request this themselves from the respective airlines and are often confronted with the fact that some providers pull out all the stops in order to be able to avoid paying out or delay it for as long as possible.

"I can't even hear the whining about the lack of staff anymore. Why were no clear criteria set in terms of working conditions when the Corona aid was awarded to the airlines. In this way, outsourcing of employees and the approach of still cheaper wages could have been counteracted. The EU Commission is now required to take a close look at the working conditions in aviation and to ensure uniform European rules in air traffic. Better working conditions would be a highly effective remedy for staff shortages. Those who treat their employees with respect and ensure good remuneration and framework conditions will also find people who are motivated and enjoy their work. Of course, you can't start a few days before the main travel season, especially in the safety-sensitive aviation industry. The damage has already been done, but we have to cushion the impact on travelers and ensure appropriate compensation," said Schieder.