AIR PASSENGER RIGHTS

Abstract

Air transport plays a vital role in global mobility, facilitating the movement of people and goods across continents. However, the complexity of air transport operations often leaves passengers vulnerable to various disruptions, including delays, cancellations, lost luggage, etc. As a result, the protection of passenger rights has become an essential aspect of air transport law. This paper explores the legal framework that regulates passenger rights, with particular focus on Macedonian, European, and international legal sources. The paper examines the rights and obligations of both airlines and passengers, analyzing key legal instruments such as the North Macedonian Aviation Law, EU Regulation 261/2004, the Montreal Convention, and the Chicago Convention. The focus of the research is in legal solutions , especially in the areas of: compensation, assistance and liability, as well as the legal bases for exempting airlines from liability. It also discusses contemporary trends in air transport, such as the rise of digital tools, sustainability efforts, and the development of insurance products, which are shaping the experiences and legal protections of passengers. Ultimately, the research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the legal protections available to air passengers and the challenges associated with enforcing these rights in a rapidly changing global aviation environment.