What's Happening?
The European Parliament's Committee on Transport and Tourism has approved a proposal to revise and strengthen EU air passenger rights, a framework that has been in place since 2004. The committee's decision, made on January 12, 2026, with 36 votes in favor
and two abstentions, aims to maintain core protections for passengers while introducing practical improvements. Key elements of the reform include maintaining the three-hour delay threshold for compensation, which ranges from €300 to €600 based on flight distance, and rejecting proposals to reduce compensation levels or extend delay thresholds. The European Commission has also proposed limits on airline liability to situations under their control, updating the list of extraordinary circumstances that exempt carriers from paying compensation. These include natural disasters, war, severe weather, or certain strikes. The Parliament insists on an exhaustive list that must be regularly updated for clarity.
Why It's Important?
The proposed changes are significant as they aim to enhance consumer protection in the aviation sector, a critical aspect of the EU's transport policy. By maintaining compensation thresholds and expanding passenger rights, the reforms seek to address common frustrations related to flight disruptions. However, the airline industry, represented by groups like IATA, A4E, and ERA, has expressed concerns that these measures could limit consumer choice, increase ticket prices, and affect the competitiveness of European aviation. The industry argues that the existing regulations already impose significant burdens without corresponding benefits, and the proposed changes could exacerbate operational challenges. The debate highlights the tension between consumer protection and industry flexibility, with potential implications for ticket pricing, service quality, and the overall competitiveness of the EU aviation market.
What's Next?
The proposal will proceed to a plenary session at the end of January 2026 for final approval. Following this, interinstitutional negotiations with the Council and Commission will take place to finalize the regulation. The outcome of these discussions will determine the future framework of air passenger rights in Europe. Stakeholders, including airlines and consumer advocacy groups, are likely to continue lobbying for their interests, influencing the final shape of the legislation. The process underscores the complexity of balancing consumer rights with industry needs in a highly competitive and regulated sector.
