Airlines 'failing passengers'

The recent stranding of passengers abroad following the collapse of companies such as Zoom Airlines and XL, which may have encouraged people to opt for ferry travel over flying, has been described as a "debacle" by an insurance company.

Essential Travel accused airlines of "failing" their passengers by not providing them with enough protection in the event of company failure.

Stuart Bensusan, the company's commercial director, said that the current provisions for victims of scheduled airline failure is "unacceptable, bordering on negligent".

He added: "The debacle that followed the collapse of Zoom was a disgrace.

"Thousands of people stranded overseas, even more out of pocket because they'd paid for their flights using cash or cheque. The airlines have a duty of care to their passengers, but instead passengers are being allowed to drop through a loophole."

While the aviation industry has been suffering from the negative effects of the economic crisis recently, the ferry market has enjoyed growth and success this year.

The Port of Dover has seen rising passenger numbers over recent months and plans to start work on a second ferry terminal in 2010.

Ryde - Southsea

1 x Foot Passenger(s) Return

Travelling on:

21/02/2012 - 21/02/2012

£10

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Fishbourne - Portsmouth

Car + 2 Return

Travelling on:

13/03/2012 - 15/03/2012

£64

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Fishbourne - Portsmouth

Car + 4 Return

Travelling on:

06/07/2012 - 09/07/2012

£93

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* Prices are "from prices" and are indicative only

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