Compensation up to 600 euros, new rules for flight delays and cancellations , enhanced rights passengers and stricter obligations for airlines in the EU.

Following lengthy which lasted over a decade, the European Union is proceeding with a radical overhaul of the passenger protection framework air transport, introducing a new set of rules that redefines compensation, mandatory care in cases of delays and cancellations, as well as airlines’ obligations toward travelers, with the aim of greater transparency, faster service, and a substantial strengthening of the rights of passengers across the entire European air transport market.

After 13 years of negotiations, the Council of the European Union and the European Parliament reached a political agreement on the revision of the framework for the protection of air passengers, introducing new rules on compensation, service, and information for travelers.

The agreement aims to strengthen the rights of passengers in cases of delays, cancellations, and denied boarding, while also clarifying the obligations of airlines throughout the European Union.

Compensation amounts

Under the new framework, passengers will continue to be entitled to compensation when their flight arrives at its destination more than three hours late or when it is canceled less than 14 days before departure. Compensation amounts remain at €250 for flights up to 1,500 kilometers, €400 for intra-EU flights or flights between 1,500 and 3,500 kilometers, and €600 for longer distances.

At the same time, airlines will be required to inform passengers electronically of their rights within 96 hours of the flight’s arrival and to respond to compensation claims within 14 days.

Enhanced care

Significant changes are also planned regarding the provision of care during long delays. Passengers will be entitled to refreshments every two hours of waiting, a meal after three hours and then every five hours, as well as internet access and two free phone calls. In cases where an overnight stay is required, airlines will cover hotel accommodations and transportation to and from the airport. If the airline fails to provide the required assistance, the passenger may cover the related expenses themselves and request reimbursement.

Particular emphasis is placed on protecting vulnerable groups, such as people with disabilities or reduced mobility, pregnant women, children, and unaccompanied minors. The new rules provide for the free transport of mobility equipment and service dogs, compensation in the event of loss or damage to equipment, priority in receiving assistance and re-routing, as well as the option to travel alongside their companions or family members at no extra charge.

The new rules

One of the most significant changes concerns the restriction of the “No-Show,” under which airlines could cancel subsequent legs of a trip when a passenger did not use a previous flight on the same ticket. This practice is significantly restricted, while it is completely prohibited for passengers with reduced mobility, pregnant women, and unaccompanied minors.

At the same time, in cases of flight cancellation or denied boarding, airlines must offer alternative transportation within three hours. If they fail to do so, passengers will have the right to arrange their own travel and claim compensation of up to 400% of the original ticket price.

The new rules also provide for greater transparency in airline ticket bookings. Prices will be displayed upfront along with the right to carry carry-on luggage, while passengers will be informed in a timely manner of the causes of delays and cancellations. In addition, airlines will be required to provide at least one free and effective means of communication with their customers.

The agreement is expected to receive final approval from the European Parliament and the Council of the EU before it takes effect in all European Union member states.