Commission+launches+new+smartphone+app+to+enable+passengers+to+check+their+rights+while+travelling

A new smartphone app introduced by the European Commission will allow passengers to look up information as to their passenger rights while travelling.

Launched just in time for the holiday season, the app provides information on air and rail transport and is accessible on four mobile platforms - Apple iPhone and iPad, Google Android, RIM Blackberry, and Microsoft Windows Phone 7. Further information as to passenger rights when travelling by bus/coach and marine will be made available in 2013.

The app, which is part of the Commission's "Your passenger rights at hand" campaign, is intended to provide useful assistance for travellers who encounter unexpected problems while travelling. If a flight is cancelled, a package holiday is not as described, or a train time is changed, travellers may find it easier to make arrangements if they know their rights and entitlements. The app will explain the passenger's rights as they apply to the situation at hand and also provide details of who to contact if these rights are not respected. It is also envisaged that, in the case of a large-scale emergency such as that which followed the Icelandic volcanic eruption in 2010, the app may display travel information and advice directly from the European Commission.

If you have encountered a problem while travelling and want advice as to your rights, please contact our office on (01) 879 7620 or fill out our complaint form here.