European Union reaches agreement to reform air passenger rights

On June 15, representatives from the European Parliament and the Council of the EU reached a long-awaited agreement to update air passenger rights, which had not been revised since 2004. After 13 years of negotiations, the new framework clarifies compensation rules and aims to improve transparency for travelers. Passengers remain entitled to compensation for delays exceeding three hours, with amounts ranging from 250 to 600 euros depending on the flight distance. New provisions ensure that parents can sit next to their children under 14 at no extra cost, a right also extended to people with disabilities and pregnant women. Airlines will be required to display the total ticket price upfront, including one small personal item, effectively curbing hidden baggage fees. Carriers must now confirm receipt of compensation claims and provide electronic responses within 30 days of filing. While some member states pushed to increase the delay threshold to four or six hours, the current three-hour limit was maintained. The regulations also mandate stricter rules for providing assistance, such as food and accommodation, during major disruptions. The agreement is expected to be implemented fully by 2027.