The European Parliament has approved a revision of EU rules protecting air passengers, according to ECO News. The updated legislation preserves passengers' rights to free hand luggage and compensation in the event of prolonged delays or cancelled flights.

The legislation was approved by 646 votes in favour, 12 against and 3 abstentions, with the new rules expected to come into effect in 2027.

The review of the EU regulations began in 2013, with Members of the European Parliament consistently advocating stronger baggage rights and better protection for passengers affected by delays, while the aviation industry and some member states opposed the proposed changes.

Compensation rights

The revised legislation maintains and clarifies existing compensation rules. When a flight is cancelled or delayed by more than three hours, passengers will continue to be entitled to compensation ranging from 250 euros to 600 euros.

For flights of more than 3,500 kilometres, airlines will have to pay 300 euros, while compensation may reach 600 euros if a flight is cancelled or delayed by more than four hours.

Passengers will have nine months to submit a compensation claim, and airlines will be required to process payment within 30 days of receiving a valid claim. In extraordinary circumstances, airlines may be exempt from paying compensation.

Baggage rules

Passengers will continue to be allowed to travel with one item of hand luggage free of charge, provided it complies with the maximum dimensions of 40 centimetres by 30 centimetres by 15 centimetres.

Currently, some low-cost airlines charge extra for small wheeled bags, compact suitcases and backpacks. Under the new rules, airlines will be required to inform intermediaries and flight comparison websites, from the beginning of the booking process, whether hand luggage is subject to an additional fee.

The regulations will still allow airlines to offer lower fares to passengers who voluntarily choose to travel without carry-on baggage.

New passenger rights

The legislation also prevents airlines from charging additional fees to correct spelling mistakes in passengers' names. In addition, passengers will be entitled to receive digital boarding passes during check-in without having to install a specific airline application or create a user account.