13/05/2026 (Agence Europe) – On Wednesday 13 May, the Member States’ permanent representatives to the EU discussed the regulation on air passenger rights, ahead of the inter-institutional negotiations (trilogue) scheduled for 19 May in Strasbourg. Overall, the representatives reaffirmed the EU Council’s commitment to achieving a balanced result, strengthening passenger rights while guaranteeing legal certainty and preserving the operational and financial viability of the aviation sector, against a backdrop of geopolitical tensions and the energy crisis. Discussions focused in particular on three outstanding issues: compensation thresholds and amounts, the definition of ‘extraordinary circumstances’ justifying non-reimbursement, and pre-filled forms. On this last point, a provisional agreement was reached last month (see EUROPE 13853/15). The trilogue should enable progress to be made on these issues before the next meeting of the Conciliation Committee, scheduled for 2 June. (JV)