European nations have supported a new proposal that allows airlines to delay flights longer before they are required to compensate passengers. This controversial move is expected to be balanced with the introduction of several new rights for travelers.

Currently, European passengers are entitled to compensation ranging from 250 to 600 euros (about $285 to $685) for delays of three hours or more, depending on the flight distance.

Many travelers argue that this can lead to significant costs, often making them choose to cancel their flights instead of facing long delays that disrupt subsequent schedules.

A majority of EU countries reached an agreement last Thursday after intense discussions in Luxembourg, overcoming Germany’s objections.

The revised rules would push the compensation requirement to four hours for flights up to 3,500 kilometers (2,175 miles), or for connections within the EU, with a compensation rate set at 300 euros. For longer flights, passengers would only be eligible for a 500 euro compensation after a six-hour delay.

The European Consumer Organisation BEUC criticized this proposal, stating that it would strip most passengers of their compensation rights, as many delays typically last between two to four hours.

The group called on EU lawmakers, who still need to approve the proposal, to protect passenger rights.

Airlines were also dissatisfied; the Airlines for Europe (A4E) association, which includes major players like Air France-KLM and Lufthansa, argued that the new rules add even more confusion compared to the initial plan proposed by the European Commission.

However, a spokesperson from the French aviation federation described the changes as a “step forward” for consumers. Laurent Timset noted that these adjustments “clarify the law and will help reduce the number of legal disputes.”

Dariusz Klimczak, Poland’s infrastructure minister and holder of the EU presidency, praised the introduction of “over 30 new rights” for passengers as part of the agreement.

These new rights include the ability to be rerouted at the earliest opportunity, which can involve switching to flights operated by different airlines or alternative modes of transport.

The proposal also sets up automatic compensation for flights canceled within two weeks of departure.

Additionally, it outlines the right to assistance — including food, drinks, and accommodation — when travel plans are disrupted.

Philippe Tabarot, France’s transport minister, expressed satisfaction with the compromise, even if he felt the final text could have aimed higher. He conveyed that this was an important step toward enhancing the quality of air travel services.