EU aviation rules may raise ticket prices

The EU this week tightened rules on air passenger rights, and both the aviation industry and Sweden’s consumer groups warn the changes could push up ticket prices.

After 13 years of negotiations, the EU adopted stricter regulations granting flyers expanded protections. A key change requires airlines to more clearly inform passengers how to claim compensation. The industry had sought lower payouts for delays and cancellations, but the decision keeps existing levels: passengers on flights delayed by three hours or more remain entitled to compensation of €250–600, depending on distance.

Sweden’s consumer association welcomed the new framework, while the aviation sector criticised the retention of the compensation system for delayed or cancelled flights. Both sides agree ticket prices may ultimately rise.

“We only see fees going up. The added costs will further strain airlines,” said Fredrik Kämpfe, industry chief at Transportföretagen Flyg.

“It’s not at all impossible that prices will go up,” said Maria Wiezell, consumer advisor at Sveriges Konsumenter.