Online Platforms, Competition Rules and Consumer Protection in Travel Industry

The article analyses the growing role of on-line intermediaries in travel and accommodation services and the concerns that have arisen under competition law. In particular the clauses which tie service providers to the intermediaries are discussed in the light of several cases brought in front of national competition authorities for alleged violation of Article 101 TFEU. The article then examines the uncertain legal relationship between intermediaries and the final client in order to establish if consumer protection laws should and could be extended to such intermediaries and if they may be considered liable for unfair commercial practices