The European Parliament voted on Wednesday by a large majority - 632 votes to 15 - to stick to its position that compensation should be paid after delays of three hours. EU countries are equally stubborn in preferring four to six hours before airlines have to pay.
This means that the issue will most likely go to a so-called conciliation committee later this year - a highly unusual process in the EU.
Parliament is also fighting for the right to carry a small backpack or laptop bag on board free of charge, as well as hand luggage weighing up to seven kilograms.
"Today, airlines are making it difficult for travelers to get their money back. It is unacceptable," wrote Swedish MEP Johan Danielsson (S) in a press release.
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