Overview

• The European Commission has proposed increasing the delay threshold for flight compensation from three hours to between five and twelve hours, depending on flight distance.
• Consumer advocates warn the reform could eliminate up to 80% of current compensation claims, significantly reducing passenger rights.
• German Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig opposes the changes, emphasizing the need to protect existing consumer rights and maintain the three-hour threshold.
• Airlines for Europe (A4E) supports the proposal, arguing it would provide operational flexibility and reduce penalties for delays.
• The reform remains under negotiation among EU member states and the European Parliament, with its final approval and terms still uncertain.