
The European Parliament on Tuesday overwhelmingly approved the most significant update to EU air passenger rights in more than two decades, introducing stricter protections for travelers while curbing hidden airline fees. The sweeping reform, adopted with 646 votes in favour, 12 against and three abstentions, guarantees free cabin baggage, free family seating for children under 14, faster compensation for delays and clearer ticket pricing.
Under the new rules, airlines must include the cost of a standard carry-on bag in the advertised ticket price, ending the practice of charging extra for basic hand luggage. Parents will no longer face surcharges to sit next to their children under 14, a change welcomed by family travelers and consumer groups alike. The Parliament also secured the right to compensation for passengers whose flights are delayed by more than three hours, cancelled with less than 14 days’ notice or denied boarding, with payouts ranging from €250 to €600 depending on distance. Airlines can reduce compensation by 50% for long-haul flights if they offer an alternative route arriving within four hours of the original schedule.
Crucially, the reform streamlines the compensation process. Airlines must now inform passengers within four days of arrival how to claim refunds or compensation, and must process valid claims within 30 days. The rules also clarify that airlines are only exempt from paying compensation in cases of extraordinary circumstances such as natural disasters, severe weather or strikes by airport or air traffic control staff. The updated framework replaces regulations first adopted in 2004 and reflects 13 years of negotiations between the Parliament, Council and Commission.
EU Transport Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas hailed the agreement as “one of the most important reforms in passenger rights in over 20 years,” noting that it strengthens protections while providing legal clarity for airlines. “This is good news for passengers, who will continue to benefit from strong protections when flights are cancelled or delayed,” he said in Strasbourg. “It is also good news for airlines, because the compromise we reached ensures greater predictability.”
The new rules will take effect 20 days after publication in the Official Journal of the EU, with a one-year transition period before full application. The Council of the EU has already endorsed the agreement, and formal adoption is expected in the coming weeks. Consumer advocates praised the Parliament’s insistence on maintaining existing compensation levels despite pressure from airlines and some member states to reduce payouts. “Families will no longer be nickel-and-dimed for basic services, and passengers will get their money back faster when things go wrong,” said a spokesperson for the European Consumer Organisation.
The reform comes as air travel demand continues to rise across Europe, with summer peak season underway. While airlines have warned of potential operational challenges, the Parliament’s vote signals a clear shift toward stronger passenger rights and more transparent pricing. The updated rules are set to apply from mid-2027, giving carriers time to adapt their booking systems and customer service protocols.
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