European Parliament approves new passenger protection rules

On October 20, 2026, the European Parliament in Strasbourg voted overwhelmingly to approve new regulations enhancing passenger rights across air, rail, bus, and sea travel. The legislation, passed with 652 votes in favor, two against, and eight abstentions, focuses on improving transparency and compensation procedures in cases of travel disruption.

A central component of the new rules addresses flight cancellations booked through third-party intermediaries, such as travel agencies or online platforms. Passengers will be entitled to a full refund, including service fees, within 14 days of a cancellation. The process dictates that airlines must reimburse intermediaries within seven days, leaving the latter another seven days to complete the transfer to the passenger. Furthermore, the legislation simplifies compensation claims via common EU forms and mandates free air travel for necessary escorts of passengers with disabilities.

While the European Parliament has adopted these measures, they remain subject to final approval by the Council of the European Union. Once ratified, the rules are scheduled to enter into force on October 23, 2027, aiming to ensure consistent protection for the approximately 13 billion passengers traveling within the EU annually.