MEPs Push For Delay Compensation, Free Cabin Bags & More

MEPs have set out their red lines ahead of negotiations on changes to EU air passenger rights, insisting on strong protections for travellers.

The Transport and Tourism Committee adopted its negotiating guidelines on Monday with 34 votes in favour and two abstentions.

MEPs want to maintain compensation for flight delays of more than three hours, regardless of distance, rejecting proposals to raise the threshold to four or six hours.

Compensation would range from €300 to €600 depending on the journey.

Passengers whose flights are cancelled or who are denied boarding would also receive the same compensation. A common form for claims would be introduced, and airlines would have 48 hours to send pre-filled forms or activate alternative communication channels.

Travellers would have one year to submit claims, with immediate payment in cases of denied boarding.

The Parliament proposes a defined list of exceptions to compensation rules, including natural disasters, war, severe weather or unforeseen labour disputes, excluding strikes by airline staff.

Under the proposed rules, passengers would be allowed to carry one personal item and one small trolley weighing up to seven kilograms free of charge.

Fees for check-in, correcting booking errors or seating children under 14 with accompanying adults would be abolished. Travellers would also have the right to choose a paper or digital boarding pass.

European Parliament rapporteur Andrey Novakov said the measures ensure passenger protection while maintaining a fair balance with the aviation industry. Negotiations with the Danish Council presidency will begin on 15 October.

#MaltaDaily