EU air rights: what will change
The European Union is preparing new rules on air passenger rights. The political agreement reached between the European Parliament and the Council maintains the current compensation and introduces clearer procedures for complaints, fares, baggage and assistance during flight disruptions.
The changes are not yet operational. The text will have to be formally approved and published in the Official Journal of the European Union. The updated provisions will apply 12 months after publication.
Compensation confirmed after three hours
In the event of cancellation or delay of at least three hours, compensation remains provided for:
- 250 euros for flights up to 1,500 kilometers;
- 400 euros for routes between 1,500 and 3,500 kilometers;
- 600 euros for connections of more than 3,500 kilometers.
Airlines will have to inform passengers of their rights and explain how to claim compensation within 96 hours of the disruption. Complaint procedures will also be simplified.
More clarity on exceptional circumstances
The situations that may exclude the right to compensation will be defined through a more precise list. The aim is to make the application of the rules more uniform in the different countries of the European Union.
More transparent fares and hand luggage
Airlines and booking platforms will have to make fares more understandable and comparable, including any costs for hand luggage. The agreement does not automatically introduce free luggage, but aims to make additional expenses more obvious before purchase.
The return flight remains valid
One of the main innovations concerns the "no-show". If the passenger does not use the outbound flight, the airline will not be able to cancel the return flight or charge a fee to allow it to be used.
Greater protection for reduced mobility and disability
The new framework strengthens assistance during delays and cancellations and provides greater protection for wheelchairs and other mobility aids.
The rules will continue to cover all flights departing from the European Union. For direct connections to the EU, the protection will apply when the service is operated by a European company.
