ABTA concerned by PTD review

ABTA has called for further clarity of the European Package Travel Directive (PTD) after saying some changes remain ‘unsatisfactory’.

The association is pushing for more clarity and transparency for consumers and a fairer framework for businesses, but is concerned that some of these objectives are at risk under the new changes.

For example the current proposals do not cover linked online sales, and reduce protections under Assisted Travel Arrangements (ATA).

“We are reviewing the detail of the Council’s changes. Some clarity has been achieved on the definition of packages and Assisted Travel Arrangements (ATA), and other arguments made by the industry have been addressed, such as the exemption of business travel sales. However, it is clear that certain changes made by the Council are unsatisfactory and not in line with the original objectives set by the Commission when they embarked upon this reform process,” said ABTA’s chief executive Mark Tanzer.

The European Council has entered final negotiations with the European Commission and European Parliament into the PTD.

Tanzer added: “As the process enters the final stage of negotiations in the new year, there will be further opportunities for the industry to ensure that our voice is heard. ABTA will continue to work tirelessly in Brussels to secure a modern and effective Directive that is workable, and beneficial for both consumers and travel businesses.”