The European Parliament has approved new passenger protection rules by an overwhelming majority: 652 members voted in favor, two voted against, and eight abstained, choosing neither side. Travelers across the EU will be able to request refunds for disrupted journeys through a standard form. It will cover every type of transport and 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 make clear that these businesses also have a duty to repay passengers, an issue that was unclear under earlier legislation. If a booking business fails to refund a passenger on time, the airline must make the payment instead.
The rules also strengthen protection for passengers with disabilities. When a companion is necessary, that person will be able to fly free, as companions already can on buses, trains, and ships. The measure builds on changes to air passenger rights approved in July. Those changes made refunds easier to obtain and require airlines to include one free piece of carry-on baggage in the ticket prices they display online.
