The European Parliament has approved new passenger protection rules with overwhelming support. There were 652 votes in favour, two against and eight abstentions, meaning eight members chose neither side. Under the rules, travellers across the EU will be able to request refunds through a standard form. It will cover every type of transport and will be available in all EU languages on the European Commission’s website.
Passengers are entitled to a full refund within 14 days, including when they book through a travel agent or an online booking platform. The new rules clarify that these businesses are responsible for returning the money, something the previous law left unclear. If a booking company fails to pay on time, the airline must step in and refund the passenger.
The rules also strengthen protection for people with disabilities. When necessary, someone accompanying them will be able to fly free of charge, as already happens on buses, trains and ships. The regulation follows wider changes to air passenger rights adopted in July. Those changes made refunds easier to obtain and require airlines to include one free piece of hand luggage in ticket prices displayed online.
