European Parliament approves new passenger rights for air travel

The European Parliament has approved a reform of air passenger rights with 646 votes in favor, 12 against, and 3 abstentions, following 13 years of negotiations. The new regulations maintain the right to compensation for delays exceeding three hours. Airlines must now ensure ticket prices are transparent, including the cost of carry-on baggage from the start. Additional fees for minor spelling mistakes in names or for printing boarding passes after check-in are now prohibited. Digital boarding passes must be provided without requiring account creation or specific mobile applications. Passengers may file compensation claims up to nine months after travel, with airlines required to respond or pay within 30 days. In cases of flight cancellations, airlines must provide information on compensation procedures within four days of the trip's conclusion. Compensation remains tiered by distance, ranging from 250 to 600 euros, though for long-haul flights, companies may reduce compensation by 50% if arrival delays are kept under four hours with an alternative flight offered.