Major airlines have to follow a new 96 hour flight cancellation procedure in an update to European passenger’s rights.
The European Union (EU) has reached a fresh agreement on a wide-ranging update to air passenger rights legislation, including changes to compensation, fare transparency and booking practices.
One of the biggest changes concerns how airlines communicate with travellers following disruptions.
Carriers are now required to actively inform passengers of their rights and compensation claims process within 96 hours of a cancellation or delay.
The agreement also aims to simplify claims procedures.
It marks a change between the framework agreed between the European Parliament and the Council of the EU that was originally decided on more than two decades ago.
The alteration also introduces a defined list of what constitutes “extraordinary circumstances,” which are situations in which airlines may be exempt from paying compensation.
It is hoped the new guidelines will create greater consistency in how airlines interact with customers.
Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, Apostolos Tzitzikostas, said: “Today’s agreement is a major step forward for European passengers and for Europe’s aviation sector.
“It delivers stronger and clearer passenger rights in practice, improves transparency, and brings legal certainty for airlines and authorities. We have found the right balance: preserving Europe’s world-leading passenger protection while creating a fair, predictable and workable framework for the aviation industry.
“This agreement demonstrates that Europe can deliver practical solutions that benefit citizens and businesses alike. I would like to thank the European Parliament, the Council and the Presidency for their commitment and determination in reaching this agreement.”
Despite the shake up, compensation levels remain set at 250 EUR for flights under 1,500 kilometres, 400 EUR for flights between 1,500 and 3,500 kilometres, and 600 EUR for flights exceeding 3,500 kilometres.
With customers able to make claims if flights are over three hours delayed still.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
