MPs are calling for the CAA to be given fining powers to punish airlines for refund delays.
The Civil Aviation Authority should have ‘more teeth’ to fine airlines, the Commons Transport Committee said.
The committee says the CAA should be given the ability to enforce financial penalties on airlines when not meeting their legal obligations.
It cited Ryanair passengers still waiting for refunds years after a 2018 pilot strike.
The long delay is because the airline challenged the CAA action.
Several airlines have lagged on their legal obligations to refund customers during the pandemic.
The committee is also seeking to introduce an airline insolvency bill in the next session of parliament to strengthen consumer protection and jobs.
“We have regularly asked for stronger consumer enforcement powers, including the ability to impose fines on airlines. This would allow us to take faster action,” said Paul Smith, Consumer Director at the CAA.
