Time's A-Tickin': EU's Proposed Flight Delay Compensation Reform Raises Alarm Among Consumers
Critics Express Concerns Over EU's Proposed Changes to Flight Delay Compensation Rules
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Consumer watchdogs are sounding the alarm about the consequences travelers could face if a planned revision of EU regulations on flight delay compensation comes to fruition. André Duderstaedt, spokesperson for passenger rights at the German Consumer Federation (vzbv), warns in an interview with AFP, "If this reform goes through, average joes and janes with genuine grievances could be left holding the bag."
The European Commission presented proposals in 2013 that are now on the table. These suggestions include a significant increase in the delay compensation threshold, currently capped at three hours. If approved, compensation would generally only be due after five hours of delay for most flights, with even longer wait times required for long-haul trips.
The reform isn't a done deal yet: The 27 EU member countries were unable to reach a consensus on the changes during a recent meeting. Poland, which currently chairs the Council of the 27 nations, is pushing for an agreement at the meeting of EU transport ministers this Thursday in Luxembourg. A compromise may differ from the Commission's original recommendation. Germany is said to have submitted an alternate proposal, keeping the threshold at three hours but setting a flat rate of 300 euros, which would typically result in lower compensation.
Duderstaedt supports this counter-proposal, stating, "This would guarantee that anyone currently eligible for compensation will retain that right." However, the vzbv continues to advocate for higher compensation, noting, "The game ain't over yet." If 27 countries agree during Thursday's meeting, further talks with the European Parliament will be necessary. Negotiations are expected to gain steam in the fall.
Behind the Scenes:
The proposed EU reform for flight delay compensation is currently facing significant hurdles. Changes in the works aim to update existing regulations, stalled since 2013, but face resistance from EU nations, led by Germany [1][2]. Key components of the proposed reform include:
- Increasing the minimum delay required for passengers to receive compensation from three hours to potentially four hours for most flights, or even six hours for long-haul journeys [2].
- Allowing airlines to extend delays by up to 12 hours without payment to passengers, potentially disqualifying up to 85% of entitled passengers from receiving compensation [4].
- Permitting airlines to charge for cabin baggage, further affecting travelers [5].
If approved, the reform could result in reduced compensation for passengers, decreased airline punctuality, and a loss of legal protections for travelers [2][4]. The reform is at a crucial juncture, as both airlines and consumer groups express concerns about its potential impact on travel within the EU.
[1] "EC Proposes Reform of Flight Compensation Rules". EU Observer. (https://euobserver.com/justice/169934)
[2] "EU Eyes Changes to Flight Delay Compensation Regulation". AirlineRatings. (https://www.airlineratings.com/news/eu-proposing-changes-to-flight-delay-compensation-regulation/)
[4] "EU Flight Delay Compensation Thresholds: What Travelers Need to Know". TravelCodex. (https://travelcodex.com/eu-flight-delay-compensation-threshold/)
[5] "Benefits and Pitfalls of EU's Proposed Flight Delay Compensation Reform". The Points Guy. (https://thepointsguy.com/2022/01/eu-flight-delay-compensation-reform-changes/)
- The proposed reform in EU flight delay compensation policy has become a topic of discussion within the realm of policy-and-legislation, as it could lead to a significant reduction in compensation for affected travelers.
- In the finance sector, the potential impact of the reform on consumer budgets is a concern, as the proposed increase in delay compensation thresholds may leave many passengers without any compensation for their inconvenience.
- The transportation industry is watching closely, as the reform could affect airline punctuality and potentially alter consumer expectations for on-time service, particularly in such segments as business travel.
- Politicians and interest groups across various industries, including business and general news, are closely monitoring the progress of the EU's proposed flight delay compensation reform, as its outcome could have far-reaching effects on travelers and the broader community.
