EU countries agree on new rights for air passengers

What new rights will air passengers get?

The EU countries propose to introduce some new rights and change some existing rules, such as the right to an alternative flight, care, and information. They also want to adjust compensation for flight cancellations and delays. Below are the four main rights air passengers should receive according to the EU countries.

The right to an alternative flight

If there is a problem with a flight, the airline must offer another flight or alternative transport as soon as possible. The airline has 3 hours to do this. If they cannot provide a suitable option on time, passengers can arrange an alternative themselves and claim the costs back, up to 400% of the original ticket price.

The right to care

Currently, passengers have the right to food and drink if their flight is delayed by 2 hours or more. If a flight is cancelled and the new flight is the next day, the airline must also offer accommodation. This right is being clarified. If the airline does not provide food, drink, or accommodation, passengers can arrange these themselves and request reimbursement.

Passengers will also have the right to minimum care during delays on the runway. If the delay lasts more than 3 hours, passengers must be allowed to leave the plane.

The right to compensation for flight delays or cancellations

The EU countries propose different compensation amounts for long delays. The amount depends on the flight distance and destination. The new compensation amounts are slightly higher than the current ones, but only apply after longer delays:

• Flights up to 3,500 km and within the EU: up to €300 compensation after a delay of 4 hours or more.
• Flights over 3,500 km: up to €500 compensation after a delay of 6 hours or more.

Airlines must also compensate passengers in cases of 'extraordinary circumstances' unless they can prove they did everything in their power to avoid the delay or cancellation and to reduce its impact.

If the airline cancels a flight fewer than 14 days before departure, passengers are also entitled to compensation. The airline must provide a pre-filled form so passengers can claim this compensation.

The right to information

When booking, passengers must receive clear information about the flight and how the airline handles requests and complaints. In addition, deadlines for responses will be introduced. Passengers can submit a complaint or request within 6 months. If a passenger has applied for compensation, the airline must respond or pay within 14 days.

Next steps

The new rules and changes are not final yet. The European Parliament has four months to respond to the proposals and may approve, amend, or reject them.

Want to know more?

If you want more information about the proposed changes to air passenger rules, visit the website of the Council of the European Union.