The European Parliament has approved updated rules aimed at strengthening passenger protections and improving enforcement when travel is disrupted across the European Union. The legislation passed with 652 votes in favor, two against and eight abstentions. Under the rules, passengers who book flights through travel agents or online platforms would be entitled to full reimbursement, including intermediary fees, within 14 days of a cancellation. Airlines would have up to seven days to transfer payments to intermediaries, which would then have a further seven days to pass the money to passengers. Travelers would also be able to use standardized EU-wide forms to request reimbursements or compensation. The measures further strengthen protections for people with disabilities or reduced mobility, including allowing a necessary accompanying person to fly free of charge. National enforcement authorities would gain expanded powers to investigate potential violations through audits, inspections and interviews, even without a passenger complaint. The rules must still receive formal approval from the Council of the EU before publication in the Official Journal, and are expected to apply from Oct. 23, 2027. They will cover an estimated 13 billion passenger journeys annually across air, rail, bus, coach and ferry services. Post navigation Samsung Blends Art With Technology