EU adopts new rules for air travel - More rights for passengers. Changes, effective from mid-2027
The European Union has adopted a new package of air travel reforms that strengthens passenger rights, bringing significant changes to the way passengers travel and the handling of compensation claims. The new rules, adopted by the European Council after receiving the consent of Parliament, will apply to all flights departing from EU airports, as well as flights arriving in the bloc, when operated by European airlines. The changes are expected to enter into force in mid-2027.
Children under the age of 14 will have the right to sit next to their parents at no additional charge, for seat reservation. The same right will also apply to pregnant women and people with limited mobility, who will be able to travel next to their companion at no additional charge.
Airlines will be required to correct passenger name errors on tickets free of charge, while another important change is the obligation for airlines and booking platforms to display the full price of the ticket, including hand luggage, to make it easier to compare offers. Also, passengers who miss the first flight on a round-trip ticket will no longer automatically lose the right to use the return flight.
When it comes to delays and cancellations, the basic rules for compensation remain unchanged. Passengers will continue to be entitled to compensation when a flight is delayed by at least three hours and the airline is at fault. However, airlines will not be held liable for situations caused by bad weather, natural disasters, disruptive passengers or strikes by airport and ground staff.
The reforms also aim to simplify the process of claiming compensation. Passengers will receive written information about their rights within 96 hours of the end of their journey, will have 9 months to file a claim, and airlines will be obliged to pay compensation or provide a reasoned response within 30 days. In the event of a trip interruption, passengers will also be entitled to food and drinks for the duration of the wait, as well as free hotel accommodation and transport.
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