The European Parliament has officially approved a comprehensive package of new safeguards designed to protect the 13 billion people who travel across Europe annually via plane, train, coach, bus, or ferry. The legislation, which passed with a decisive 652 votes to 2 and 8 abstentions, builds upon reforms previously established for air passengers, including regulations regarding seating for families and compensation for travel disruptions.
Under the new rules, air passengers are now guaranteed full reimbursement for cancelled flights, even if those tickets were purchased through third-party intermediaries such as online booking platforms or travel agents. The mandate requires that refunds, which must also cover any associated intermediation fees, be processed within 14 days. Furthermore, companies are now obligated to inform customers of these specific rights at the time of booking. To simplify the reimbursement process, the European Commission will introduce a standardized form compatible with all EU languages for use across all modes of transport.
The legislation also introduces improved protections for passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility. Additional safeguards were also agreed for people with disabilities or reduced mobility travelling by plane. They will be able to be accompanied by a person free of charge, if necessary, as is already the case for journeys by bus, train or ship.
One official remarked that the move prioritizes citizen rights over airline profits, noting that national authorities will be tasked with ensuring companies meet their responsibilities to avoid the need for court intervention. The regulations are currently awaiting formal approval from the EU Council, which comprises government ministers from across the union. Once published in the EU Official Journal, the new protections are scheduled to take effect on October 23, 2027, coinciding with the implementation of the broader air passenger rights reforms.
