MEP Novakov Says New Air Passenger Rules Add EUR 1.80 to Ticket Prices

MEP Novakov says new air passenger rules are expected to add EUR 1.80 to ticket prices, as the European Parliament adopted updated passenger-rights legislation on Tuesday. MEPs approved the changes agreed with the EU Council by 646 votes in favour, 12 against and 3 abstentions. The framework covers compensation and assistance for denied boarding, cancellations and long delays, and clarifies air carrier liability for passengers and baggage; it has not been updated since 2004. Andrey Novakov, the rapporteur, told journalists the Commission was asked to assess fare impacts. He cited delay compensation of EUR 250 for flights up to 1,500 km, EUR 400 for intra-EU beyond that distance, and EUR 600 for longer flights, arguing the rules add only EUR 1.80.