Vendors create decorative palm fronds, locally known as “Palaspas,” outside the Sto, Domingo Church in Quezon City on Friday. Catholics in the Philippines will commemorate the entry of Jesus Christ to Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, which ushers the start of the observance of Holy Week.(MNS photo)
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Transportation and Communications Secretary Jun Abaya on Monday said flights may be delayed during the Holy Week not only because of the influx of people but also due to problems with airlines as well.
“Bagamat marami tayong lumilipad sa ganitong panahon, minsan sa kadahilanan rin ng airlines, kung late ang piloto, poor ang maintenance, then magkakaroon ng delay ‘yun,” Abaya said.
Abaya said passengers are entitled to certain benefits when their flights are delayed as stated in the Air Passengers’ Bill of Rights.
“Kapag na-delay ka, may mga penalties ‘yan at pribilehiyo na dapat mong matanggap. Kung kanselado [ang flight], dapat libre ang booking at may accommodations,” Abaya said.
Under the Air Passengers’ Bill of Rights, terminal delay of three hours after expected time of departure (ETD) gives the passenger the right to avail of refreshments and meal, to have free phone calls and texts, to rebook or refund the ticket, and to be endorsed to another carrier.
Terminal delay of six hours after ETD, on the other hand, entitles the passenger to consider cancelling the flight and receive additional compensation. A two-day delay gives a passenger the right to have sufficient food and beverage.
“Mahalaga mayroon tayong reminders sa mga airport kung ano ang components ng Air Passengers’ Bill of Rights,” Abaya said.
He also stressed the importance of help desks in helping passengers assert their rights in case delayed flights occur.
Meanwhile, Abaya said passengers also have to do their part to avoid unfortunate circumstances.
“Ang mahalaga dito ay aagahan nila. Mahirap ang last minute. Again ‘yung early planning, early preparation and departure, malaking tulong po ‘yun,” he said.(MNS)