How do the new rules boost air passenger rights? Ask the Euronews AI chatbot

A Euronews AI chatbot will explain how the EU’s updated air passenger rights could strengthen protections for travelers dealing with delays. Since 2015, flight delays in Europe have reportedly grown faster than air traffic itself, with IATA estimating a total cost of €17.5 billion, while consumer groups say enforcement under Regulation 261 has been difficult; only 38% of eligible passengers benefit. On 15 June, EU lawmakers agreed to reforms after a 2013 Commission proposal, keeping compensation for delays of more than three hours at €250–€600. New measures include banning fees for correcting name-spelling errors, providing free seating for children under 14 and passengers with disabilities, and requiring airlines to include trolley-bag costs in the basic ticket fare for transparency. The previous rules remain until the changes take effect in mid-2027.