Consumer groups active in Catalonia have warned that proposed changes to EU air passenger rules could reduce compensation and leave travellers with fewer rights. The warning comes as the reforms are still being negotiated by the European Parliament and member states.
The European Consumer Organisation, BEUC, said on 26 May 2026 that the updated rules could leave nearly 60% of passengers without compensation for cancelled or delayed flights. The groups, including Asufin and Cecu, sent a joint letter to EU governments and MEPs on the Parliament’s Internal Market and Consumer Protection, and Transport and Tourism committees.
They say the proposal would raise the threshold for compensation claims from three hours to four or six hours, depending on flight distance. They also say minimum compensation could fall from €250 to €83, and that airlines would be able to cancel flights with 48 hours’ notice instead of 14 days.
The associations also object to wider exemptions for airlines, including a broader list of so-called extraordinary circumstances. They argue this would make it easier for carriers to avoid paying compensation when flights are delayed or cancelled.
Another concern is extra charges for services the groups describe as basic, including hand luggage, reserving seats next to dependents or minors, and printing boarding passes. The organisations want hand luggage included in the ticket price and say pre-filled compensation and refund forms should be provided to make claims simpler.
David Sánchez, director of the Federation of Consumers and Users, Cecu, said the proposal is “a direct cut of already consolidated rights”. He said it would reduce payouts, expand exceptions for airlines and make claims harder. The final rules will depend on the outcome of negotiations between EU lawmakers and member states. More Catalonia news