'Disaster for customers': EU's plan to cut flight compensation provokes anger

thelocal.comPublished: 5/28/2025

Summary

The EU is proposing to extend its three-hour delay threshold for flights by two hours, aiming to reduce cancellations and the financial burden on airlines. Currently, airlines face up to €600 per passenger in compensation for delays over three hours or must cancel flights within 14 days before departure. The move could save airlines nearly 50% of canceled flights while reducing compensation payouts for passengers. However, some critics argue it weakens consumer protections and could lead to inconsistencies across Europe, with Germany opposing the change. The proposal is part of ongoing EU negotiations as Poland assumes the rotating presidency.