Saudi introduces new rules with heavy compensation for flyers in event of flight delay, luggage damage

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has released a new set of rules for the rights of air passengers. The regulations apply to Saudi airlines and foreign airlines operating to and from Saudi airports. As per this, passengers should be compensated if the flight is delayed or the journey is interrupted. In case of cancellation of the service, passengers will be compensated up to 150 percent of the ticket price depending on the period of advance notice to the passengers.

Under the old rules, in such cases, the compensation was equal to the ticket price. Under the new rules, 200 percent compensation is guaranteed to the passengers. In the event that a stopover was not declared at the time of booking, compensation of up to 500 Riyals will be given for each new stopover added. The new rules specify that if a disabled person is denied a seat, compensation equal to 200 percent of the ticket price should be paid, and if a wheelchair is not provided, a compensation of 500 Riyals should be paid.

Also, considering the inconvenience of luggage, the compensation has been significantly increased to 740 Riyals on the first day of delay and 300 Riyals for each subsequent day up to five days. This is to encourage airlines to handle baggage quickly and efficiently. And for loss of baggage and damage to baggage, compensation of 6,568 riyals must be paid under the new law.