European legislature endorses Commission's plan.
Let's Talk about Air Travel: European Parliament vs Member States
It's a hot topic in aviation circles as Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) are clashing with EU member states over passenger rights. A recent vote in the Transport Committee showed the MEPs are standing firm on passengers' right to carry on two pieces of hand luggage for free, and they ain't backing down!
A majority of MEPs voted in favor of this change, which would allow passengers to take a small carry-on item such as a handbag, backpack, or laptop (max size: 40x30x15 cm) and an additional item like a suitcase (max height: 46 cm, total dimensions: less than 100 cm) without any extra charges in the future. They're also pressing for children under 12 to be allowed to sit next to their accompanying adult without additional costs.
However, EU member states have their own ideas. Earlier this month, they reached a compromise on revising compensation for delayed flights, agreeing that passengers should only receive compensation after a four-hour delay for flights up to 3,500 kilometers with a six-hour limit for longer flights. The compensation? 300 or 500 euros, depending on the delay.
But the MEPs are calling bullshit on that, with FDP MEP and one of the leading negotiators, Jan-Christoph Oetjen, voicing clear opposition to deviating from the three-hour rule. European SPD transport spokesperson Vivien Costanzo and CDU colleague Jens Gieseke have voiced similar sentiments, stressing that they won't back down on clear and reasonable obligations for airlines.
Negotiations between the European Parliament and member states are set to begin in October, with Oetjen optimistic about wrapping things up before Christmas or early next year.
Now, you might be wondering what's the big deal? Well, let's break it down:
- Mandatory Free Hand Luggage: MEPs want to set a rule that airlines must allow one small carry-on bag per passenger at no additional cost.
- Improved Compensation for Delays: The MEPs' proposed changes aim to enhance compensation rules for flight delays and cancellations, ensuring passengers receive fairer protection.
- Transparency and Accessibility: The reforms focus on making passenger rights easily understandable, backed by improved digital tools and complaint systems.
Hold onto your seats because these negotiations are gearing up to be quite the ride!
The European Parliament's policy-and-legislation regarding air travel, specifically the mandatory free hand luggage proposal and improved compensation for delays, has stirred up politics in the aviation sector. Despite opposition from EU member states, a majority of Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have shown resilience in these matters, refusing to back down from their demands.
