The European Union has approved sweeping reforms to air passenger rights, with new measures to come into force from 2027. The changes are designed to simplify the compensation process, improve transparency from airlines and make it easier for passengers to understand exactly what support they're entitled to when travel plans go wrong.
Every year, millions of passengers experience delays across Europe, but many never make a claim because they don't know what they're entitled to, assume the process is too complicated or give up after struggling to navigate different airline policies. Travel experts say the proposed changes could make a significant difference, particularly during the busy summer holiday period when delays often have a knock-on effect across an entire trip.
Ferdinando D'Agostino, travel expert at Transfeero explains what the changes could mean for travellers.
What the New Rules Could Actually Mean for Travellers
One of the most important points for holidaymakers is that the three-hour threshold for delay compensation has been retained.
Under the updated rules, passengers could be entitled to €250 for flights of 1,500km or less, €400 for intra-EU flights or journeys between 1,500km and 3,500km, and €600 for other qualifying flights when they arrive more than three hours late.
Airlines Will Have a Deadline to Deal With Your Claim
Under the new framework, airlines will be expected to acknowledge claims immediately and then respond within 30 days, either paying the compensation due or clearly explaining why the claim has been rejected.
Passengers affected by a delay that could qualify for compensation should also receive electronic information from the airline within 96 hours of arrival, explaining their rights and how to make a claim.
Stranded Overnight? Your Hotel Could Be Covered
Under the updated rules, passengers facing disruption will have clearer rights to practical assistance while they wait. This includes refreshments every two hours, a meal after three hours and additional meals during longer waits. If disruption means an overnight stay becomes necessary, passengers can also be entitled to hotel accommodation and transport between the airport and accommodation.
This is where travellers can make an expensive mistake. When you're stranded late at night, it is very easy to panic, book the first hotel you can find and assume you're going to have to absorb the cost yourself.
Your Airline Could Have Three Hours to Find Another Way to Get You There
For passengers whose flights are cancelled or who are denied boarding, the rules around rerouting are also becoming clearer. Passengers choosing to be rerouted at the earliest opportunity should be offered an alternative route within three hours. Depending on the circumstances, that could involve another airline, another airport or even another form of transport.
If the airline fails to offer suitable rerouting within that period, passengers may be able to arrange their own alternative journey and claim reimbursement of up to 400% of the price of their original ticket. This could be particularly important for travellers who have something time-sensitive waiting at the other end, whether that's a cruise departure, wedding, major event or important connection.
What Travellers Should Do If Their Flight Is Delayed
Don't throw away your boarding pass: Keep your boarding confirmation until your trip has completely finished.
Save every airline notification: Take screenshots of delay alerts, emails and app notifications in case you need them later.
Keep receipts for unexpected costs: If you need to pay for food, accommodation or transport because of the delay, keep proof of every purchase.
Check onward bookings: Contact your hotel, airport transfer provider or tour operator as soon as you know your arrival time has changed.
Know your rights before you fly: Spending just a few minutes understanding what support may be available before travelling can save a lot of stress if your plans are disrupted.
