How to Improve UK261 & EU261

Summary

The episode examines the UK261/EU261 passenger rights regulation, highlighting its importance for travelers and exposing gaps when flying with non‑EU carriers like American Airlines, which often leave passengers to foot hotel and meal costs during weather‑related delays. The host proposes three regulatory “degrees of freedom” to extend UK261 protections to inbound flights, all flights involving a UK sector, and even codeshare segments with British carriers, arguing that airlines would accept these costs to retain access to lucrative London markets. He also touches on market‑based solutions such as ancillary offers or tax incentives to encourage airlines to adopt higher duty‑of‑care standards.