EU Parliament backs reform to air passenger rights

2026-01-22

The European Parliament on Wednesday (21 January) voted to maintain the current three-hour flight delay threshold for compensation in its review of EU air passenger rights, while endorsing some changes.

The European Parliament adopted its position (632 in favour, 15 against, nine abstentions) on revising EU air passenger rights, reaffirming the stance taken by transport MEPs earlier this month.

The European Parliament and the European Council, which represents the EU’s 27 member states, disagree over proposed changes to the EU261 rules, which stipulate how passengers are compensated when affected by airline delays and cancellations.

In Wednesday’s plenary session, the European Parliament voted to keep the delay threshold with compensation at between €300 and €600, while the Council had previously argued that compensation should be limited to €500 and apply only after a four to six hour delay.

The Parliament also backed changes to allow passengers to carry both a personal bag and a piece of hand luggage onboard free of charge, and for travellers with disabilities or reduced mobility to receive compensation, rerouting and assistance if they miss flights due to inadequate airport support.

MEPs also agreed that seat selection should be free for those accompanying children under 14 or individuals with reduced mobility, and voted for airlines to provide pre-filled forms to simplify compensation and reimbursement claims.

Airlines association IATA had previously criticised EU261 reform, warning it would lead to increased travel costs and reduced competition.

Parliament’s amendments will now move to the European Council. If the Council does not agree to all of Parliament’s changes, a conciliation committee will be convened to reach an agreement on the final version of the bill.

Credit: BTN Europe

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