From mid-2027, air travellers will benefit from enhanced protections. On 7 July, MEPs approved the updated regulations with a 646 to 12 vote, preserving existing rights while introducing new safeguards. The Council gave its approval on 13 July. But what exactly do these changes entail? The Euronews AI chatbot can provide the answers.

Since 2015, flight delays in Europe have surged by 82.7%, outpacing the 11.5% growth in air traffic, resulting in an estimated loss of 17.5 billion euros, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

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Meanwhile, travellers have faced difficulties claiming their rights since the introduction of Regulation 261 on air passenger protection in 2004.

EU legislators have now identified a solution.

On 15 June, following extensive negotiations, the European Council and European Parliament agreed on strengthening air passenger rights, building on the European Commission’s 2013 amendment proposal.

This reform was driven by concerns voiced by consumer organisations regarding unjust fees and inconsistent enforcement of passengers’ rights by airlines. According to the European Consumer Organisation (BEUC), only 38% of eligible passengers currently receive the protection they are entitled to.

While the Council initially sought to reduce these safeguards, MEPs ensured the preservation of compensation rights between €250 and €600 for flights delayed beyond three hours. Newly introduced rights prohibit charges for correcting name spelling mistakes and guarantee free seating for children under 14 as well as passengers with disabilities. Airlines are now required to include the cost of a trolley bag within the ticket’s standard price to promote transparency.

The existing rules will stay effective until the new regulations come into force around mid-2027.

For details on your updated entitlements as an air passenger, consult the Euronews AI chatbot!