EU Proposes Extended Flight Delay Compensation - A Look at the New Rules in the Parliament
Across Europe
Airlines in EU countries could be required to limit flight delays to a maximum of four hours.
After a unanimous agreement among the 27 EU countries' transport ministers, a proposal has been made to extend the flight delay compensation period for passengers. This new stance is set to be presented before the European Parliament. Under the proposed changes, passengers on flights under 3500 kilometers will be eligible for compensation only after four hours of delay, as opposed to the current three. For long-haul flights surpassing the 3500-kilometer mark, the wait time for compensation will be six hours instead of the current four. The proposed compensation amounts are a flat rate of €300 for short-haul flights and €500 for long-haul flights.
Say goodbye to that quick buck, airlines!
Now, let's get this straight, folks: these changes still need the European Parliament's nod to become official. Here's a quick recap of the current and proposed rules for flight delay compensation in the EU:
Current Compensation Rules
- Short-haul flights (under 3,500 km): Passengers may claim compensation for delays of three hours or more, with payouts ranging between €250 and €400.
- Long-haul flights (over 3,500 km): Flight delays of four hours or more entitle passengers to compensation, with amounts reaching €600.
Proposed Compensation Rules
In the event that the European Parliament approves the changes, these modifications will be implemented:
- Short-haul flights (under 3,500 km): Compensation of €300 will be doled out for delays beyond the four-hour mark.
- Long-haul flights (over 3,500 km): Compensation of €500 will be up for grabs for delays surpassing the six-hour milestone.
Economically speaking, these proposed changes in flight delay compensation could significantly impact the profits of European airlines within the business sector. Meanwhile, politics are playing a role as the European Parliament will decide on whether these changes become official and alter the current rules in general-news.
