Protection of air passenger rights

MEPs have approved their position on the revision of air passenger rights rules, which have been in force since 2004. They opposed proposals by Member States to extend the right to compensation to delays of up to four or six hours. According to Parliament, this would significantly weaken passenger protection.

Not only should the three-hour limit for compensation be maintained, but also its current amount, which is based on the length of the flight. At the same time, Parliament insists that airlines should have a clearly defined list of extraordinary circumstances in which they are not liable for delays, and that this list should be regularly updated.

The process of claiming compensation is also to be significantly simplified. Airlines would have to automatically send passengers pre-filled claim forms, not only in the event of flight cancellations, but also in the event of long delays. The aim is to ensure that people do not have to use intermediaries and go through complicated procedures to assert their rights.

Parliament also advocates free hand luggage. Passengers should be entitled to one personal item and one small piece of hand luggage at no extra charge. Special protection should also apply to families with children and persons with reduced mobility – accompanying persons should be able to sit with them at no extra charge.

The European Parliament's position will now be forwarded to the Council of the EU. If the Member States and MEPs cannot agree, they will have to continue negotiating the final form of the rules.