Guidance to support EU transport sector affected by the Middle East crisis published
The Commission has adopted guidance to support the EU transport and tourism sectors in response to ongoing fuel supply disruptions and the closure of certain air and shipping routes linked to the Middle East crisis. The guidance focuses primarily on aviation and clarifies the application of existing EU rules concerning fuel uplift obligations, airport slots, public service obligations, fuel surcharges and passenger rights.
The Commission confirmed that passengers affected by flight cancellations continue to benefit from EU air passenger rights, including reimbursement, rerouting and assistance. Airlines may only be exempted from compensation obligations in cases of extraordinary circumstances, such as local fuel shortages, while high fuel prices alone do not qualify. The guidance also foresees temporary flexibility regarding fuel uplift obligations and airport slot usage where fuel supply disruptions affect operations.
The Commission adopted a temporary State aid framework enabling Member States to support transport operators across aviation, road, rail, inland waterways and maritime sectors affected by the crisis, particularly as a result of rising fuel costs.
For more information, see the Commission’s PR and our previous PR regarding the adoption of the Middle East Crisis Temporary State aid Framework (METSAF).