The European Union has completed the revision of the rules governing air passenger rights, following years of consultations between the European institutions and the aviation industry. The new framework aims to provide greater clarity on procedures regarding delays, cancellations and airlines' obligations, while maintaining the debate on the sustainability of air transport in Europe.
The revision of the rules comes after years of implementation of the existing system, which had created different interpretations and practices between member states, airlines and passengers. The aim of the new approach is to create a clearer framework, both for travellers facing problems in their travels and for companies called upon to manage complex operational conditions.
Among the key issues at the centre of the negotiations were the rules on financial compensation in cases of long delays. The new agreement maintains passenger protection, while attempting to define more precisely the obligations of airlines and the cases in which the right to compensation arises.
12-month transition period for adaptation
The new provisions will not be implemented immediately, as a transitional period of 12 months and 20 days is foreseen after their publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. This period will allow airlines, airports and other stakeholders to adapt their systems and procedures to the new data.
From the airlines' perspective, the revision is being viewed with caution, as the industry underlines the need to take into account the real operating conditions of air transport. Air carriers consistently point out that a significant part of disruptions are caused by unpredictable external factors, such as severe weather conditions, structural constraints in airspace management (ATC), geopolitical developments and the overall systemic pressure faced by European aviation infrastructure.
Fears of impact
Smaller carriers have expressed particular concern, saying that increased obligations could have a greater impact on companies with limited profit margins. According to their position, a stricter compensation system could affect operating costs, but also the maintenance of some routes, especially in regional markets where air connectivity is a critical growth factor.
At the same time, the industry has called for greater clarity on so-called extraordinary circumstances, i.e. events beyond the control of airlines that can affect the ability to pay compensation. The companies’ position is that a functioning system should differentiate cases where the carrier is liable from those caused by external factors.
As we move towards the start of implementation of the new provisions, the challenge for European aviation remains to achieve a meaningful balance that ensures the rights of travelers without simultaneously burdening the operational resilience of air carriers and the overall connectivity of the Continent.
This article first appeared, in Greek, in the most recent edition of Hermes Airports' online newsletter Flight Mode. Click here to view it.
