European Parliament moves to protect passenger rights

The European Parliament has voted to uphold existing passenger rights regarding flight delays and cancellations, opposing efforts by EU transport ministers to weaken current protections. The Parliament's position, supported by 632 votes in favor, seeks to maintain the three-hour delay threshold for compensation and keep reimbursement amounts between €250 and €600, depending on flight distance.

Key proposals from the Parliament include the introduction of pre-filled forms for compensation claims, the right to carry one personal item and one small piece of hand luggage free of charge, and ensuring passengers can sit with children under 14 or persons with limited mobility without extra costs. This stands in contrast to proposals from EU member states that suggested delaying compensation eligibility until delays reach four to six hours.