U.S., March 18 -- The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and Airlines for Europe (A4E), reacted with dismay to the European Commission's new guidelines on the application of the EU261 passenger rights regime.

The new guidelines are disappointing and unhelpful, falling far short of the simple and temporary alleviation airlines had requested for:

* Recognition that no compensation is due in the event of cancellations due to COVID-19;

* A limitation on the extensive obligations to provide care and assistance in the event of cancellations due to COVID-19;

* Flexibility to allow airlines to offer rebooking or vouchers in place of refunds in the event of cancellations due to the pandemic.

There was some limited help in the new ...