EU nears deal on airline passenger rights reform after 13 years

A significant reform of European airline passenger rights, initiated over thirteen years ago, is nearing a potential conclusion. Representatives from the European Parliament and the twenty-seven member states are meeting in Strasbourg on June 15 to finalize a compromise on the proposed changes. This conciliation meeting is particularly rare, as no similar procedure has been successfully completed at the European level in over a decade.

Recent progress includes member states agreeing to maintain compensation for flight delays of three hours or more, except in extraordinary circumstances. Compensation amounts are expected to remain between 250 and 600 euros, depending on flight distance. This decision preserves existing passenger rights, which consumer associations view as an important victory, rather than introducing a completely new entitlement.

However, discussions surrounding cabin baggage remain contentious. While the proposed reform aims for greater transparency, it does not mandate that all airlines must include a cabin suitcase for free in the base fare. Instead, airlines might be required to integrate the cost of cabin baggage into the initial ticket price, potentially offering discounts to passengers who choose to travel without it. This point highlights a divergence from the Parliament's initial ambitions.

Further points of negotiation include the possibility of free seat assignments for parents traveling with children and ensuring boarding passes are accessible without requiring app downloads. The outcome of these complex negotiations is anticipated by the evening of June 15, with travelers hoping for clearer and more favorable conditions.