Reduction in compensation for flight delays in Europe for passengers anticipated
The European Union (EU) has recently approved significant changes to its Air Passenger Rights Regulation, specifically under Regulation (EC) No 261/2004, which governs compensation for flight delays and cancellations. These changes aim to strike a balance between better consumer protection and operational realities for airlines.
Key changes related to flight delay compensation include:
1. **Increased Delay Threshold for Compensation:** Passengers will now be eligible for compensation after a minimum delay of 4 hours, up from the current 3-hour threshold. For flights within the EU or those under 3,500 km, the threshold is 4 hours. For flights longer than 3,500 km, compensation applies only if the delay exceeds 6 hours. This change effectively reduces the number of passengers eligible for compensation compared to current rules.
2. **Compensation Amounts:** Delays of four to six hours will entitle passengers to compensation ranging from €300 to €500, depending on the journey length.
3. **Expanded Passenger Rights:** The new rules introduce over 30 new or strengthened rights, including clearer airline liability rules. Notably, airlines can no longer refuse compensation by citing "extraordinary circumstances" unless they prove they took all reasonable steps to avoid disruption. Passengers will also be automatically compensated for cancellations within 14 days of departure, and the controversial "no-show" policy will be scrapped.
4. **Information and Transparency:** Sellers and carriers are obligated to inform travelers before purchase about the type of ticket they are buying, with penalties for failure to provide this information, including reimbursement and 75% compensation if a connection is missed.
These changes were approved by the EU Transport Council and European Parliament committees in June 2025 and are set to take effect soon after final legislative adoption. While the exact enforcement date is not specified, the announcement in mid-2025 implies implementation likely within the following months or early 2026.
It's important to note that the European Council made this decision without discussions with the European Parliament. The rules will apply to airlines registered in the EU or flights taking off from an EU or Schengen zone country. The changes will not take effect immediately; the European Parliament has four months to stage any objections, and if no objection is received, then an introduction date will be set. This means the old rules will still apply during the summer holiday period.
In cases of "extraordinary circumstances" like extreme weather, political instability, security risks, or problems with air traffic control, compensation is not paid. Passengers are often required to make their own arrangements for accommodation and alternative travel, and submit compensation claims to the airline later.
The changes are a result of lobbying by airlines, who argue that compensation payments are too high, especially for budget airlines. Rules on flight cancellations and airlines' responsibility to provide food, accommodation, and alternative travel remain unchanged.
The new rules also strengthen the rights for passengers with a disability. For longer flights, airlines would be obliged to pay compensation if flights land at least six hours late. The decision was made at a European Council summit, despite opposition from Germany and Spain.
In summary, the EU is raising the delay threshold for compensation to 4 hours, increasing compensation amounts for certain delays, expanding passenger rights, and strengthening enforcement and transparency measures. These changes will take effect following the completion of the legislative process after mid-2025, aiming for stronger and clearer passenger protections.
- The revised Air Passenger Rights Regulation, effective after its legislative adoption, will see legal changes in lifestyle and travel within the European Union, as it increases the delay threshold for compensation to 4 hours and introduces expanded passenger rights.
- Travelers will now be eligible for financial compensation of €300 to €500 for delays of four to six hours, reflecting the recent legal adjustments made under Regulation (EC) No 261/2004, which governs the travel sector in the EU.
