The consumer advocates of the Vienna Chamber of Labor are of the opinion that in the previous year many consumer rights, which are actually clearly regulated by law, were literally trampled underfoot. Around 498.200 citizens sought the support of the AK in 2020.

Airlines and tour operators stood out particularly negatively. the Bankruptcy of the Austrian level For example, it has resulted in many passengers losing their money on paid flight tickets. Behind the bankrupt airline was the billion dollar IAG group, which is alleged to have used the corona pandemic to get rid of its loss-making daughters in Vienna and Paris-Orly.

The Chamber of Labor announced that there were 2020 percent more consultations in the area of ​​consumer protection in 28. "It's about money, withheld rights in the case of canceled trips or events, problems with the warranty, with insurance companies, banks, traps when shopping online, and, and, and," Zgubic lists the cases. There are gaps in consumer rights - Corona has once again clearly illustrated this. Consumers need more protection, ”said AK functionary Gabriele Zgubic.

Restrictions on advance payments are required

Specifically, the Chamber of Labor calls for insolvency protection for airlines to be created at EU level. The bankruptcies of Air Berlin and, most recently, Level Europe have shown that many passengers have lost their money. The security system already practiced for package tours should serve as a model.

Furthermore, the Chamber of Labor insists that advance payments should be restricted. Flight tickets are often bought and paid for well in advance, especially on the Internet. “If a flight or an event is canceled, there are difficulties getting the money back. In particular, the refusal of airlines to provide quick and uncomplicated ticket refunds shows that there is an urgent need for action. Consumers should therefore no longer have to pay the full price so long in advance. For example, a small deposit should be made when booking a flight. The remaining amount may only be debited from the airline on the day of the flight, ”said the Chamber of Labor.