European Parliament Approves Enhanced Air Passenger Rights

The European Parliament (EP) has approved new rules enhancing air passenger rights. The decision was adopted with 646 votes in favor, 12 against, and 3 abstentions.

The updated rules maintain that in case of flight cancellation, passengers are entitled to reimbursement or re-routing. Compensation is due for delays over three hours, cancellations less than 14 days before departure, or denied boarding. Compensation amounts remain unchanged: €250 for flights up to 1,500 km, €400 for intra-EU flights between 1,500 and 3,500 km, and €600 for flights over 3,500 km. For long flights, airlines may reduce compensation by 50% if they offer re-routing and arrival delay does not exceed four hours.

Compensation is not payable if the delay or cancellation is caused by extraordinary circumstances, such as natural disasters, war, weather, disruptive passengers, or strikes. A non-exhaustive list of such circumstances is included. However, the duty of care remains: airlines must provide drinks and snacks every two hours, a meal after three hours, and accommodation for up to three nights if the delay is beyond the airline's control.

Passengers choosing reimbursement will receive it automatically. Airlines must give clear instructions on how to claim compensation within four days, without requiring passengers to create an account or download an app. Claims can be submitted within nine months, and airlines must respond within 30 days.

New baggage rules allow one personal item (e.g., small bag or backpack) in the cabin free of charge. The ticket price must include carry-on baggage fees from the start, but airlines can offer cheaper tickets without carry-on. Airlines cannot charge extra for correcting name spelling or providing a printed boarding pass if checked in. Digital boarding passes must be provided without an account or app, and self-printed versions cannot be grounds for denial of boarding.

Passengers with disabilities are entitled to compensation, re-routing, and assistance if they miss a flight due to the airport's failure to provide timely help. Families with children under 14 and pregnant women must be seated together for free.

The rules still require approval from the EU Council. They will take effect 20 days after publication in the EU Official Journal, with a one-year transition period for member states and companies.