EU keeps three-hour flight delay compensation threshold in passenger rights reform

Three-hour delay threshold survives airline challenge

EU member states and the European Parliament today agreed on a reform of air passenger rights that preserves the existing compensation rules for delays. Travellers will still receive between €250 and €600 when their flight arrives at least three hours late, depending on distance. A push by a majority of governments—including Germany and France—to raise the threshold to five hours was abandoned after pressure from MEPs. The current regime pays €250 for flights up to 1,500 km, €400 for 1,500–3,500 km, and €600 for longer routes. Airlines pay roughly $8 billion in delay compensation annually, according to industry estimates cited by Politico.

The European Parliament promised passengers that their rights would not be compromised and we did not give up. Today's decision of the EU member states confirms it.

New transparency and family-friendly measures

Airlines will be required to present fares that include cabin baggage from the first booking step—not as a free inclusion, but to allow genuine price comparisons. They may later offer discounts for passengers travelling without hand luggage. MEP Jan-Christoph Oetjen, a lead negotiator, said the reform would make compensation procedures “for all easier and more efficient” and that Parliament had “successfully defended flight passenger rights.” Additional changes ban extra fees for parents sitting next to their children and allow free correction of name errors on tickets.

Stronger safeguards for vulnerable travellers

The deal adds protections against no-show practices, particularly for people with reduced mobility, pregnant women, and unaccompanied minors. Carriers must actively seek alternative transport, including on other airlines, if a flight is disrupted. Passengers will be entitled to priority assistance, guaranteed seating with companions or family, and better coverage for mobility equipment. Compensation for poorly provided assistance is also introduced.

Mixed reception from consumer groups and airlines

Consumer advocates said the outcome falls short. “Unfortunately, the enforcement rules will not improve anything,” said Kristina Gírethová of the European Consumer Organisation (BEUC), noting that only 38 % of eligible passengers claim compensation today. Airlines for Europe called the legislative process “no way to reform EU law.” Spain and Latvia voted against the text, while Austria and Finland abstained.

Final vote expected Monday

The deal needs formal approval by the European Parliament and member states on 15 June, which diplomats describe as a formality. If confirmed, the new rules will enter force and airlines will have 12 months to comply. Austrian MEP Sophia Kircher said the compromise prevented “a deterioration of consumer protection rights in air travel.”