European Parliament vote on EU261 could threaten regional airlines and essential air connectivity across Europe

Following today’s plenary vote in the European Parliament on the revision of the EU air passenger rights regulation, EU261, the European Regions Airline Association (ERA) has warned that the decision could put essential regional air services across Europe at risk.

While strengthening passenger rights is a shared goal, ERA says the vote reflects political positioning rather than operational and economic realities. The association warns that regional airlines, which operate smaller aircraft and lower-margin networks, could face disproportionate costs and regulatory burdens.

“Regional airlines risk becoming the punchbags of a political tug-of-war. ERA members operate over 1,000 unique routes, yet when compensation can reach two to three times the ticket price, the outcome is not stronger passenger rights but fewer essential air links for islanders, remote regions, and commuters who rely on these services. This is not about punctuality or compensation. However well-intentioned, decisions in the European Parliament risk turning a passenger-rights file into a barrier to everyday mobility for European citizens by overlooking the impact on regional airlines,” said Montserrat Barriga, Director General of ERA.

Regional airlines provide year-round connectivity to remote areas, often serving routes with no alternative transport options. They link citizens to healthcare, education, and employment and play a vital role in regional development and sustainable aviation. Many operate small fleets, face limited rerouting options, and rely on single bases, making them uniquely exposed to high regulatory costs.

ERA emphasises that the revised EU261 could have punitive effects, undermining connectivity even though regional carriers actively minimise cancellations and maintain essential services where they are the only transport link available.

SIGN ME UP