European Parliament approves reform of air passenger rights

On Tuesday, the European Parliament voted 646 to 12, with 3 abstentions, to approve a major overhaul of air passenger rights in Strasbourg. The new regulations, following 13 years of negotiations, simplify compensation procedures and improve price transparency. Passengers remain entitled to €250 for flights under 1,500 km, €400 for EU flights over 1,500 km or routes between 1,500 and 3,500 km, and €600 for long-haul travel. Airlines may reduce compensation by 50 percent on long-haul routes if alternative transport results in an arrival delay of no more than four hours. Mandatory provisions include free adjacent seating for children under 14 and passengers with reduced mobility, alongside the right to one free cabin item. Refund processes are to be automated, and airlines must provide clear guidance on claims within four days. Furthermore, cabin baggage costs must be disclosed upfront, and charges for minor name spelling errors are regulated. Exemptions from compensation remain restricted to extraordinary circumstances such as weather, strikes, or security issues.