EU Parliament Approves New Passenger Rights for Travel Disruptions

OPA WIRE, Oct 20 (OPA) — The European Parliament voted 652-2 to adopt new passenger protection rules, aiming to simplify the refund process for travel disruptions. The legislation mandates that passengers receive full refunds within 14 days, utilizing a standardized form available in all official EU languages via the European Commission website.

Under the new framework, travel agents and online booking platforms are explicitly included in reimbursement obligations. If an intermediary fails to issue a refund within the specified timeframe, the airline must intervene to ensure the passenger is compensated. Matteo Ricci, the Italian MEP overseeing the regulation, stated the policy prioritizes citizen rights over airline profits.

The legislation also expands accessibility requirements for passengers with disabilities. Travelers requiring assistance will now be permitted to bring a companion on flights free of charge, aligning air travel policy with existing standards for buses, trains, and ships. This measure follows a broader overhaul of air passenger rights enacted in July.

That earlier reform simplified refund procedures and required airlines to include one free item of hand luggage in all online fare displays. The latest regulation, which saw eight abstentions, seeks to eliminate ambiguity in liability between carriers and third-party booking services, ensuring consistent enforcement across the European Union.