July 9, 2026, 7:21 am | Read time: 2 minutes
The European Parliament has approved a comprehensive reform of passenger rights. The new rules strengthen the position of passengers–from compensation to rebooking to free seats for families.
Compensation Remains Largely Unchanged
After lengthy negotiations, it is clear: The existing compensation rules remain in place. Air travelers are still entitled to compensation if they reach their destination with a delay of at least three hours and the airline is responsible for the delay. Depending on flight distance, compensation of 250, 400, or 600 euros is still provided.
The same amounts will also apply to last-minute flight cancellations, provided they occur less than 14 days before departure and the airline is at fault. Exceptions include extraordinary circumstances such as bad weather, natural disasters, or strikes at airports and ground handling services. With this, the European Parliament opposes initial plans by member states to significantly raise the hurdles for compensation.
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More Rights for Rebooking and Families
The reform also brings several practical improvements. Parents will be able to reserve seats next to their children free of charge. Additionally, airlines are required to present ticket prices more transparently, making additional costs more apparent at the time of booking.
If there are significant issues or a flight cancellation, the airline must offer a comparable alternative transportation within three hours. This can be with another airline, through a different airport, or even by train. If the airline does not respond in time, travelers may arrange an alternative themselves. The airline must then cover the costs up to 400 percent of the original ticket price.
Clear Deadlines and More Transparency
Communication with passengers will also be tightened. Airlines must inform travelers in writing of their rights and possible compensation claims no later than 96 hours after the trip is completed. Passengers then have nine months to assert their claims.
Once a claim is received, the airline must either pay the compensation or provide a clear explanation of why no claim exists within 30 calendar days. The new regulations apply to flights with EU airlines as well as flights from the European Union with foreign airlines. After formal approval by EU states, airlines will have 12 months to implement the new requirements.