European Parliament Secures Stricter Airline Passenger Rights Deal

The European Parliament and the EU Council have reached a provisional agreement to overhaul airline passenger rights for the first time since 2004. The deal introduces standardized compensation of €250 for flights up to 1,500 km, €400 for 1,500–3,500 km and €600 for longer routes when flights are delayed over three hours, cancelled less than 14 days before departure, or when boarding is denied. Passengers will also receive refunds or re‑booking options and have nine months to lodge claims, while airlines must respond within 30 days and provide compensation within four days of a disruption.

The new rules expand assistance obligations, requiring airlines to offer refreshments every two hours, meals after three hours of waiting, and accommodation for up to three nights when necessary. Additional protections cover passengers with disabilities, children under 14, and pregnant women, and grant a free personal item allowance and digital boarding passes. Airlines may halve compensation for long‑haul flights if they offer an alternate route and are exempt from paying when disruptions stem from extraordinary circumstances such as natural disasters, war, weather, or strikes.