New proposal on the protection of air passenger rights

On 21 January 2026, the European Parliament adopted its position on proposed changes to EU air passenger rights, strongly opposing efforts by EU Member States to weaken existing protections.

The European Parliament wants to maintain compensation for flight delays of more than 3 hours, rejecting the Council’s proposal to raise the threshold to 4-6 hours. They also oppose reducing compensation amounts, supporting payments of EUR 300 - EUR 600 depending on flight distance. Parliament calls for a clear, regularly updated list of “extraordinary circumstances” under which airlines can avoid paying compensation. MEPs wish to retain airlines’ duty of care during delays, including refreshments, meals after three hours, and up to three nights of accommodation. They also propose simpler reimbursement procedures, requiring airlines to send pre-filled compensation forms within 48 hours of cancellations or long delays.

In addition, passengers should be allowed one personal item and one small cabin bag (up to 7 kg) free of charge, to eliminate fees for correcting minor name errors, and to preserve the option of paper boarding passes. Passengers with reduced mobility, pregnant women, infants, and children in a pram with an accompanying person should be given priority when boarding, while their accompanying persons should be seated with them without incurring extra costs.

The proposal now goes to the EU Council, and if disagreements remain, negotiations in a Conciliation Committee will follow.