EU countries agreed on new rules for flights.
The rules maintain compensation for delayed flights. If a flight is delayed by 3 hours, passengers receive compensation.
Most EU countries voted in favor. Spain and Latvia voted against. Austria and Finland abstained.
The EU Parliament still needs to approve the decision. The final decision will be made in July. The new rules will come into effect in 2027.
Airlines are unhappy. They claim the rules do not address the real issues.
Currently, passengers receive 250 to 600 euros for delayed flights, depending on the flight distance. The new rules retain this compensation.
There are also changes regarding small bags. Airlines must include the price of a small bag in the ticket. Passengers can opt out of the small bag and pay less.
The rules also clarify compensation in cases of bad weather. If the weather is extremely bad, airlines are not required to pay.
Passengers receive compensation directly. They can also use specialized companies for assistance.
The agreement ensures passengers retain their rights. However, cheap flight tickets may become more expensive.