The Ministry of Transport has drafted a project amending the rules for the air transport of passengers, baggage and cargo. The document introduces new standards aimed at protecting passenger rights, improving service quality and refining the current regulations.
WHAT CHANGES DOES THE PROJECT PROPOSE
According to the Ministry of Transport, a draft of amendments and additions to the order of the Minister of Investment and Development dated 30 April 2015 No. 540 "On Approval of the Rules for the Transport of Passengers, Baggage and Cargo by Air" has been developed.
The project provides for regulating the procedure for transporting musical instruments. It is proposed to allow their transport in the aircraft cabin as hand luggage, in a separate passenger seat, or in registered baggage, provided the established requirements are met. It also proposes to formalise the possibility of transporting musical instruments in the aircraft cabin, including the dombra and the kobz, in a secure protective case. Their dimensions must not exceed 110×35×30 cm, and their weight — 10 kg.
WHAT RULES APPLY TO PASSENGERS
The project also proposes to provide for the possibility of transporting animals in the aircraft cabin in accordance with the conditions set by the airlines.
Furthermore, the document contains a standard on the legislative consolidation of providing concessions for air travel to passengers with disabilities.
When an aircraft is replaced with a less capacious one, the project provides for the priority allocation of seats to specific categories of passengers. Transport is to be ensured first for minor passengers, persons with disabilities, passengers with serious illnesses, pregnant women and citizens of retirement age.
WHAT IS PROPOSED TO CHANGE TO PROTECT PASSENGER RIGHTS
In order to strengthen the protection of passenger rights, the project proposes to establish a specific deadline for the payment of a fine for delays in passenger delivery — no more than 10 calendar days from the date of submission of the relevant application.
It also proposes to provide for airline liability for damage to unregistered baggage when the carrier's fault is proven.
WHERE IS THE PROJECT BEING DISCUSSED
The draft regulatory legal act has been posted on the internet portal "Open NPA" for public discussion. Interested parties can review the document and submit their proposals and comments in the prescribed manner.
WHAT WILL CHANGE AFTER THE DOCUMENT IS ADOPTED
The adoption of the proposed changes is expected to increase the transparency and convenience of air travel, strengthen the social orientation of the industry and provide additional protection for passenger rights.
