After months of difficult negotiations over the revision of air passenger rights in the European Union, negotiators have reached a compromise agreement that largely preserves the current compensation system for flight delays and cancellations.

According to information cited by Politico Europe, the compromise proposal maintains the three-hour delay threshold for passengers to qualify for compensation. Compensation remains €250 for flights up to 1,500 kilometers and €400 for flights between 1,500 and 3,500 kilometers.

For flights longer than 3,500 kilometers, the rules are further clarified. Passengers will be entitled to €300 compensation when delays range between three and four hours, while the amount will increase to €600 when delays exceed four hours or in the event of a flight cancellation.

The Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the European Union confirmed that member-state ambassadors will meet on Friday to review the new proposal, which addresses all outstanding issues in the reform package. The development follows marathon negotiations with the European Parliament, which failed to produce an agreement during Tuesday’s session.

Mandatory Information on Compensation

One of the most significant new elements of the agreement concerns making it easier for passengers to submit compensation claims. Airlines will be required to send travelers, within 48 hours of the scheduled arrival time of a delayed or canceled flight, a link to a dedicated compensation claim form.

At the same time, airlines must provide passengers with detailed information about the reasons for the disruption, including any claim of “extraordinary circumstances” that could exempt them from paying compensation.

This information must be sent through a durable communication medium, such as email, rather than through app notifications, making it easier for passengers to access and retain the details.

After a compensation claim is submitted, airlines will have 30 days either to pay the compensation or provide a justified explanation for rejecting the request. For claims submitted in paper form, the deadline may be extended.

New Rules for Carry-On Baggage

Negotiators also reached an agreement on another controversial issue involving transparency in airline ticket pricing.

Under the new rules, airlines will be required to display fares that include the cost of carrying a cabin-sized carry-on bag, rather than only the smaller personal item that fits under the seat.

However, passengers will still be able to choose a cheaper ticket that does not include a trolley-style carry-on bag if they prefer.

If the compromise proposal is approved by the ambassadors of the member states, the final text will then need approval from the conciliation committee, which includes representatives of the European Parliament and EU member states, by June 15.

The agreement is expected to represent an important step toward strengthening the protection of the rights of millions of air passengers across Europe.