Leader of the Independent Team of Ministers and Minister for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, Seán Canney TD, has welcomed the political agreement reached yesterday by EU Transport Ministers on the revision of the regulations governing air passenger rights and airline liability.
Speaking from Luxembourg, where he attended the meeting of the EU Transport Council, Minister Canney said: “I am delighted that, after 12 years of negotiations, we have finally reached political agreement on a new and stronger framework for air passenger rights. This will be a major milestone in putting passengers first, with fairer, simpler and more transparent rules. I look forward to the agreement now moving forward to the next stage of the legislative process.”
The proposed revised rules aim to better balance robust passenger protection with the realities of air connectivity and competition in the EU internal market. Over 30 new or strengthened rights are proposed across the passenger journey, from booking to arrival—and beyond in some cases.
Proposed key improvements include:
Mandatory rerouting: Airlines must provide rerouting at the earliest opportunity, including through other carriers or transport modes. If not arranged within three hours, passengers can book themselves and claim up to 400% reimbursement of the original fare.
Clearer rights to assistance: Refreshments, meals, accommodation and disembarkation after tarmac delays are explicitly required. If not provided, passengers may organise their own and be reimbursed.
Updated compensation: Compensation of €300–€500 depending on journey length now applies after 4–6 hour delays. Airlines can only refuse compensation for ‘extraordinary circumstances’ if they demonstrate all reasonable measures were taken.
End to unfair no-show policies: Passengers denied boarding on a return leg because they missed the outbound leg will now be entitled to compensation
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Right to information and easier claims: Airlines must automatically provide pre-filled compensation application forms in the event of cancellations, making it easier for passengers to exercise their rights. New deadlines include 6 months to file a complaint and 14 days for airlines to respond and issue compensation.
The Council’s position now moves to the European Parliament for second reading. The Parliament will have the opportunity to approve, amend or reject the Council’s proposal.
Minister Canney said: “I strongly support this political agreement. Once approved by Parliament, it will provide clarity and fairness for passengers and ensure airlines meet their obligations in a timely and transparent way.”
