Brussels, Belgium. The European Parliament and the Council of the European Union remain in conflict over proposed changes to EU air passenger rights, highlighting a divide between pro-consumer and pro-airline approaches. Cyprus now holds the Presidency of the Council of the EU as efforts continue to break an 11-year deadlock.
Deadlock over reform of Regulation 261/2004
The dispute focuses on the revision of Regulation 261/2004, which sets compensation rules for air passengers. According to Virginia Christou, legal officer for the Cyprus Consumers Association, passengers are currently entitled to compensation of €250 to €500 for delays of three hours or more.
In June 2025, EU ministers reached a political agreement, but negotiations with the European Parliament collapsed in October 2025. In a second reading, MEPs overwhelmingly rejected the Council’s proposals, with 632 votes in favour of rejection, signalling an intent to strengthen protections for travellers.
Disagreement on delay thresholds
The Council, in positions largely supported by airlines, has proposed extending the waiting threshold beyond four hours. The European Parliament rejected this proposal and has insisted the three-hour limit remain.
Cyprus presidency tasked with bridging the gap
Cypriot MEP Costas Mavrides (DIKO) said the right to free movement is a fundamental EU principle and should not be undermined by hidden airline fees. He said an update is mandatory after 20 years of outdated legislation.
Mavrides said the responsibility for bridging the gap now falls to Cyprus during its presidency of the Council of the EU, describing the six-month window as a significant challenge and stating that an agreement aligned with the Parliament’s pro-citizen stance would be a major success for European travellers.
What changes to air passenger compensation rules do you think should be prioritised in the EU?