The EU has reached a compromise on compensation for delays and cancellations of flights for passengers

The European Union is nearing the completion of a years-long reform of passenger rights. Representatives of the European Parliament and member states have reached a compromise on compensation for delays and cancellations of flights, maintaining existing payment rules for most travelers. This is reported by Politico citing participants of the negotiations.

Compensations for flight delays in the EU will remain largely unchanged

According to the agreed draft, passengers' right to compensation remains after a flight delay of three hours.

The amount of compensation will remain as follows:

• €250 for flights up to 1500 km;

• €400 for flights from 1500 to 3500 km;

• €300 for flights over 3500 km delayed by three to four hours;

• up to €600 for long-haul flights delayed by more than four hours or in case of flight cancellation.

The issue of compensations was one of the most contentious during negotiations between EU countries and the European Parliament.

Airlines will be required to simplify the application process

One of the key innovations will be automatic notification of passengers about their right to compensation.

After a delay or cancellation of a flight, the airline will have to send a customer a link to a claim form within 48 hours.

In addition, carriers will be required to explain the reasons for the delay and inform whether they are citing extraordinary circumstances as a reason to refuse compensation.

After a claim is submitted, the airline will have up to 30 days to process the payment or provide an official justification for the refusal.

Changes will also affect the cost of airline tickets

Negotiators also agreed on new rules regarding the display of baggage costs when purchasing tickets.

Airlines will need to immediately show the ticket price including hand luggage, not just a small bag under the seat.

At the same time, passengers will be able to voluntarily give up transporting a wheeled suitcase and receive a discount on the flight.

If the document is approved by representatives of EU countries, the final approval of the reform could take place by June 15, 2026.

It is worth noting that the new train from Przemysl to Frankfurt through three countries is set to launch in the summer of 2026.