It's Crunch Time for EU Passenger Rights: A Closer Look at the Ongoing Debate
Lack of consensus among European Union states regarding potential erosion of passenger rights. - EU member states lack consensus on loosening air traveler protections
The European Union (EU) has put forth new proposals aiming to modify the existing passenger rights regarding flight delays. Here's what you need to know about this current debate.
The Proposed Changes
The EU Commission suggested an increase in the threshold for compensation, which at the moment is a three-hour delay. The new plan would mainly result in flat payments due after a delay of five hours for standard flights, and even extend up to twelve hours for long-haul flights [1].
Countries like Germany, however, support keeping the delay threshold at the current three-hour mark and even advocate for a flat compensation of €300 [2]. Presently, payment amounts depend on flight distance and can range from €250 to €600.
The Compromise Proposition
Poland, currently holding the presidency of the Council of EU countries, has offered a compromise proposal. This proposal suggests thresholds of three, four, or six hours based on flight length. However, no majority was reached for any of the proposals as of Thursday morning, and talks among transport ministers continue [1].
The Need for a Decision
Several countries, including France, Greece, Sweden, and more, have indicated the need for further discussion but remain willing to find a middle ground. Greek Transport Minister Christos Dimas emphasized the urgency in reaching a resolution, noting that it's high time to push the reform forward, as it's been twelve years since the initial EU Commission suggestions [2].
If EU countries come to a consensus during the negotiations in Luxembourg, the Council will then engage in talks with the European Parliament. Such negotiations are not expected to build substantial momentum until the fall [1].
A Quick Look at Key Players
- Germany: Initially pushed back against the changes, ultimately agreeing to the proposals after negotiations [3].
- France: There is no specific mention of France's stance in the recent discussions.
- Spain: Expressed dissatisfaction with the new rules, citing expanded delay periods before compensation can be claimed [2].
- Portugal: No definitive stance from Portugal has been reported.
- Slovenia: There is no detailed information available on Slovenia's position.
Revised Compensation Rules
- Flights less than 1,500 km: Compensation increased from €250 to €300 [1].
- Flights between 1,500 and 3,500 km: Compensation reduced from €400 to €300, and compensation will only be available after a four-hour delay, up from the current three-hour threshold [1][3].
- Flights over 3,500 km: Compensation reduced from €600 to €500, and only available after a six-hour delay, extending from the current four-hour threshold, with half compensation offered after a three-hour delay [1][4].
These alterations intend to alleviate financial pressure on airlines but faced criticism for potentially limiting compensation for many passengers, as most delays typically last between two and four hours [3]. The proposal is still pending approval from European lawmakers.
- The ongoing debate within EU countries revolves around the EU Commission's proposed changes to competition policy, specifically competition policy in the aviation sector, as it concerns the modification of existing passenger rights regarding flight delays.
- The politics and general news surrounding this debate have been shaped by the negotiated compromise proposal from Poland, which advocates for thresholds of three, four, or six hours based on flight length, aiming to find a middle ground between various European nations' interests in competition policy.
