A new EU agreement on air passenger rights is expected to come into force in July 2027, Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades said on Wednesday.
The deal, reached during Cyprus’s presidency of the Council of the EU, still needs to be formally approved by both the European Parliament and member states before becoming law.
Vafeades described the agreement as a major step forward, noting that reforms had stalled for more than a decade. “This is a significant success for passengers across Europe,” he said.
The revised rules aim to improve transparency, ensuring passengers clearly understand their rights, while also simplifying procedures for claiming compensation in cases of delays and cancellations.
Among the key provisions, parents will be allowed to sit with children under 14 without paying additional fees, while protections for vulnerable passengers are also strengthened.
The minister said the changes would enhance reliability in air transport and improve connectivity, which is particularly important for Cyprus’s economy.
The agreement received strong backing during negotiations, with 85 per cent of member states and all European Parliament representatives supporting it.
Vafeades also highlighted the role of the European Commission in securing the deal, pointing to the contribution of Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas.
