The performance of the Package Travel Directive and broader consumer protection issues in the implementation of passenger rights : study in focus

The original full study discusses the practical application of the Package Travel Directive (PTD) across ten EU Member States. The study reveals that the PTD requires updates to keep pace with evolving trends within the travel industry. Current definitions of 'package travel' are becoming outdated, demanding modernisation to allow it to resonate with contemporary travel dynamics. Additionally, the study probes into the industry's prevalent upfront payment systems, underscoring the necessity to strike a balance that serves operational needs and protects consumers. The digital transformation of travel presents new challenges, including maintaining transparency on platforms and navigating the complex world of online intermediaries. Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods emerge as effective in the study, particularly with regard to enlightening consumers about their PTD rights, fostering informed decisions and setting higher industry benchmarks.