Split Decision Among EU States on Passenger Rights Overhaul
EU countries have yet to achieve a consensus on proposed changes to air passenger rights, which currently guarantee compensation in certain situations. - EU Member States Divided on Proposal to Relax Air Traveler Protections
Tensions are running high as the European Council debates a significant overhaul of air passenger rights. The EU Commission's proposals in 2013, which suggest a rise in compensation thresholds, are causing division among member states.
Currently, if your flight is delayed by more than three hours, you're entitled to compensation. With the Commission's proposals, you'd have to endure a five-hour delay for most flights under 3,500 kilometers, and up to twelve hours for long-haul trips. However, Germany, Spain, Estonia, and Portugal are pushing back against this increase.
Federal Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder (CDU) of Germany expressed dissent, stating, "Increasing the threshold will weaken the rights of passengers, a line we can't cross." Likewise, Spain's Secretary of State for Transport, José Antonio Santano, called the proposal an "unacceptable reduction in compensation rights for passengers."
On the other hand, Poland, which is presiding over the Council of EU countries, has proposed a compromise. They suggest that delays of three, four, or six hours should apply depending on the flight distance. Yet, this proposal didn't secure a majority during the morning negotiations. Negotiations among transport ministers continue, with Poland scheduling another debate for the afternoon.
While the EU Council's agreement remains tentative, any final decision will require negotiation with the European Parliament. These talks, which may begin as early as autumn, could significantly impact air travel for EU residents.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing situation!
- EU
- Germany
- Compensation
- Spain
- Poland
- Airlines
- Consumer Rights
- The European Council's discussion about overhauling air passenger rights has sparked disagreement among EU countries, with Germany and Spain voicing opposition to the EU Commission's proposal to increase compensation thresholds.
- In the midst of negotiations, Poland, the current president of the Council of EU countries, has proposed a compromise regarding flight delay compensation, but this suggestion did not secure a majority during the morning negotiations.
