Protection of passenger rights in the EU
The European Parliament has finalized an agreement that updates the rules on air passenger rights, which have remained unchanged since 2004. The goal is greater transparency and faster compensation in the event of travel disruptions.
Important: The new rules ensure that airlines are held more accountable for delays, cancellations, or denied boarding.
When are you entitled to compensation?
- In case of a flight delay of more than 3 hours.
- In case of a flight cancellation for which you were notified less than 14 days before departure.
- In case of denied boarding for reasons beyond your control.
Compensation amounts:
- 250 euros: for flights up to 1,500 km.
- 400 euros: for flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km.
- 600 euros: for all other flights over 3,500 km.
It is important to note that airlines may reduce the compensation by 50% for very long flights if they offer alternative rerouting that arrives with a minimal delay.
What must the airline provide in case of a delay?
While you wait, the carrier is required to provide you with:
- Refreshments every two hours.
- Food after the third hour of waiting.
- Hotel accommodation (up to 3 nights) if the delay necessitates an overnight stay.
The new rules also include a list of "extraordinary circumstances" under which airlines are not required to pay compensation, such as natural disasters, ground staff strikes, or weather conditions.