Online Initiative - Introducing a Digital Platform to Clarify Passenger Rights Across the EU
The European Union is currently negotiating a reform of the Flight Passenger Rights Regulation (EU 261/2004). Here's a breakdown of what this means for passengers:
Passengers are entitled to care services, such as meals, drinks, and overnight hotel stays with transfer, if their flight experiences a two-hour delay at departure, provided the connecting flight is on the following day. In the event of a flight cancellation, airlines are obliged to provide appropriate care for the affected passengers.
If your flight is delayed or cancelled, you may be entitled to compensation. The amount of compensation depends on the distance of the flight. For example, if a flight arrives at its destination at least three hours late, passengers may be entitled to compensation between €250 and €600.
However, it's important to note that no claim for compensation is valid in case of extraordinary circumstances, such as severe weather or volcanic eruptions. Strikes are only considered extraordinary circumstances if they are beyond the airline's control.
The European Consumer Centre Germany (ECC Germany) has developed a digital tool to help travellers quickly and accurately check their rights under the EU Flight Passenger Rights Regulation. This tool, available in English, allows individual claims to be determined online.
If an agreement cannot be reached with the airline, passengers can contact ECC Germany free of charge for assistance. If a resolution cannot be reached with ECC Germany, the claim can be enforced through the simplified European small claims procedure.
The final version of the reformed EU Flight Passenger Rights Regulation is expected no earlier than autumn 2025, with an entry into force not before 2027. The European Consumer Centres Network (ECC-Net) has already expressed clear criticism of the planned changes, warning of a noticeable deterioration in the legal situation for passengers due to the planned changes. The planned changes could weaken consumer protection, particularly regarding compensation payments.
It's always a good idea to familiarise yourself with your rights as a passenger under the EU Flight Passenger Rights Regulation. Whether your flight departs from an airport within the EU or is operated by an EU-based airline entering the EU, the regulation covers delays, cancellations, and denied boarding, regardless of the airline's ticket price or service level.
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