Four European countries are voicing strong opposition to controversial new air travel regulations proposed by the Council of Europe, which could soon change how much compensation delayed passengers can claim — and what counts as free hand luggage.
Last week, the Council approved two major policy changes that would affect travelers across the EU and beyond.
The first centers on flight delay compensation. Under the new rules:
- For short-haul flights, passengers would need to be delayed by at least four hours (up from three) before becoming eligible for compensation.
- For long-haul flights, the delay threshold jumps to six hours or more.
Although compensation for short-haul delays would rise from €250 to €300, the payout for long-haul flights would be reduced from €600 to €500.
Consumer watchdog BEUC (European Consumer Organisation) criticized the decision, calling it a serious blow to passenger rights. They argue that most delays fall within the two-to-four-hour window, which would leave many travelers ineligible for compensation under the new system.
Although the UK has its own post-Brexit rules, British travelers on EU airlines or flying in and out of the EU could still be affected if the changes are adopted. The proposals, tabled more than a decade ago, still need approval from the European Parliament before becoming law.
The second decision deals with hand luggage allowances. Going forward, only small “personal items” that fit under the seat in front would be guaranteed for free. Larger carry-ons — the kind typically stowed in overhead bins — could incur extra charges.
This move has sparked outrage in Spain, Germany, Slovenia, and Portugal, all of which voted against the change. Spain’s Minister for Consumer Affairs, Pablo Bustinduy, condemned the measure as “too restrictive” and an “outrage,” claiming it prioritizes airline profits over consumer rights.
If adopted, even budget airlines like Ryanair may be forced to adjust their cabin baggage policies. For example, Ryanair currently allows bags up to 40x20x25 cm. The new EU standard would shift the dimensions to 40x30x15 cm — slightly wider, but also shallower — potentially forcing airlines to restructure their luggage fees and passenger options.
As air travel picks back up across Europe for the summer holiday season, these proposed changes could have major implications for millions of travelers.
If you think these new rules are unfair or could affect your travel plans, drop your thoughts (or an angry emoji) in the comments. ✈️💼😠
Airlines have made record profits by squeezing passengers on every detail, from seat selection to carry-on size. These new rules will just give them more leverage to charge extra, while everyday travelers get less in return.
Kudos to Spain, Germany, Slovenia, and Portugal for standing up for passengers. The European Parliament needs to reject this before it becomes yet another win for corporate lobbying at the expense of the public.
As a frequent traveler, I find these proposed changes deeply concerning — especially the shift in delay thresholds for compensation. It’s already frustrating enough to endure delays, and now being told that four (or even six) hours is the new minimum for a payout feels like a step backwards for passenger rights. The supposed “increase” in short-haul compensation feels more like a distraction from the fact that most passengers will no longer qualify at all.
Even worse is the baggage rule. Charging passengers for anything beyond a small under-seat bag opens the door to more hidden fees and less transparency. It’s anti-consumer and clearly tilted in favor of airline profits. I stand with the governments that voted against this. Europe should be protecting travelers, not squeezing them.