Delayed or cancelled flights, EU updates refund rules
The European Parliament has given the final green light to the reform of the Air Passenger Rights Regulation, the result of the agreement reached with the Council of the EU. The text, approved with 646 votes in favor, 12 against and 3 abstentions, updates legislation that dates back to 2004 without affecting the already existing protections.
Confirmed Compensation
The right to reimbursement or alternative flight in the event of cancellation remains, and financial compensation continues to be due for delays of more than three hours, cancellations communicated less than 14 days in advance or denied boarding. The amounts do not change: 250 euros for routes up to 1,500 km, 400 euros for those between 1,500 and 3,500 km, 600 euros for longer distances. Airlines will be able to halve the amount on long journeys if the arrival delay remains under four hours or if they offer a replacement flight to the final destination. No obligation to pay, however, for strikes outside the company, bad weather, disasters or unruly passengers.
Simplified procedures
Those who opt for the refund will receive it automatically, without having to request it. Companies will have to clearly explain how to claim compensation, without forcing Travellers to create an account or download an app. Time available for complaint: nine months; The companies will then have 30 days to pay or justify the refusal.
Carry-on luggage always included
A small bag or backpack can be brought on board at no extra charge, and the rates shown during the booking must already include it. However, it remains possible to offer discounts to those traveling without hand luggage.
Less bureaucracy at the airport
No more costs to correct a typo in the name on the ticket or to use the printed version of the boarding pass after online check-in. The digital boarding pass will be a right, without the need for an app or account, and the passenger cannot be excluded from the flight just because he or she has printed the digital one.
More protection for those in need
Families with children under 14 years old will be entitled to an adjacent seat at no extra cost, the same guarantee for pregnant women and people with disabilities or reduced mobility. Those who miss a flight because the airport did not help them reach the gate on time will be entitled to compensation, rerouting and assistance.
More flexible return
Those who do not use the outward route will still be able to fly back, without having their ticket cancelled or having to pay a supplement.
When it comes into force
After the green light from Parliament, the agreement will have to be formalized by the Council by early August 2026. The new rules will take effect 20 days after publication in the EU Official Journal, with one year given to states and companies to comply.
