The European Parliament has voted to retain the current three-hour delay threshold for flight compensation as part of proposed reforms to EU airline passenger rights. The decision was taken during a plenary session and also included support for a number of amendments, including clearer rules around carry-on luggage.
Despite the vote, any changes remain some distance from becoming law. Under the EU legislative process, lengthy negotiations are expected before a final compromise is reached and formally adopted. The Parliament and the governments of the 27 member states of the European Union continue to hold differing positions on reforms first proposed by the European Commission more than ten years ago.
At present, EU rules introduced in 2004 allow passengers to claim compensation when a flight is delayed by more than three hours, with payments starting at €250 and rising depending on flight distance. The Parliament has voted to maintain this threshold, with compensation levels ranging from €300 to €600.
Member states, however, have taken a different view. Last year, EU governments agreed among themselves to raise the delay threshold to four hours for short-haul flights, while also seeking to cap compensation at €500. This divergence highlights the ongoing tension between consumer protection objectives and concerns from airlines about cost and operational impact.
MEPs also backed proposals to guarantee passengers the right to bring a free cabin bag weighing up to 7 kilograms. This limit would be lower than allowances currently offered by some airlines, including Ryanair, which permits larger hand luggage for an additional charge. The move reflects an attempt to standardise rules across carriers, although it may not satisfy frequent travellers accustomed to more generous cabin baggage policies.
Other elements of the reform package appear less controversial. These include rules ensuring that children and passengers with reduced mobility can sit next to an accompanying adult at no extra cost, provisions that already attract broad support across EU institutions.
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