EU reaches agreement to update airline passenger rights

After 13 years of negotiations, the Council of the European Union and the European Parliament have reached a political agreement to revise passenger rights for air travel. The new rules, expected to be implemented in July 2027, aim to increase transparency and simplify compensation claims for flight cancellations or delays of over three hours. Compensation levels remain fixed at 250, 400, or 600 euros depending on flight distance. Airlines will be required to inform passengers of their rights within 96 hours of an incident and respond to claims within 14 days. New protections include free seat assignments for parents with children under 14 and improved provisions for passengers with reduced mobility. Additionally, tickets will now include a small carry-on bag, with the option to opt out for a discount. Cypriot Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades noted that these measures are intended to boost reliability and connectivity, which are vital for the island nation's economy.