The European Union (EU) has agreed on a major overhaul of its air passenger rights framework, introducing stronger protections for travellers while making it easier to claim compensation for flight disruptions.
The reforms update the EU's 2004 passenger rights regime, which has over the past two decades faced growing legal complexity and inconsistent interpretations in cases of disputes.
The new rules should take effect in 2027, applicable to flights within the EU, flights departing the EU, and flights arriving in the EU on EU-based carriers.
“I’m proud that, after 13 years of negotiations, we reached a landmark agreement to strengthen EU air passenger rights. This modernised framework will deliver certainty, fairness and stronger protection for millions of European air passengers,” said Alexis Vafeades, Minister for Transport, Communications and Works of the Republic of Cyprus.
Smoother claims
Under the new rules, airlines will be required to inform passengers within 96 hours if they may be eligible for compensation following a delay or cancellation, along with clear instructions on how to submit a claim. Carriers must acknowledge claims immediately and respond within 30 days.
Passengers will continue to be eligible for compensation when flights arrive more than three hours late or are cancelled less than 14 days before departure. Compensation levels remain largely unchanged, ranging from €250 to €600 depending on flight distance.
Support while stranded
The reforms also strengthen passengers' right to assistance during disruptions. Travellers facing extended delays will be entitled to refreshments, meals, internet access and accommodation where necessary. If airlines fail to provide assistance, passengers can make their own arrangements and seek reimbursement.
Stronger protection for passengers
Under the new rules, airlines are banned from charging for hand luggage – a common practice among low-cost airlines like Ryanair or EasyJet. Passengers are entitled to a free personal item measuring 40 by 30 by 15 centimeters, and a small suitcase not weighing over seven kilogrammes. Air fares will also have to display hand baggage allowances upfront to improve price transparency.
Additionally, parents who want to sit next to their child aged 14 or younger can do so without extra costs.
Also, protections have been introduced for passengers with disabilities, reduced mobility (PRMs), pregnant travellers and unaccompanied minors.
Extra fees previously required for name changes or requesting for printed boarding passes will also be waived.
Right to board
Another key change is a strengthened right to rerouting. Airlines must offer alternative travel arrangements within three hours of a cancellation or denied boarding, including on competing carriers or alternative transport where appropriate. If they fail to do so, passengers may arrange their own rerouting and claim reimbursement of up to 400% of the original ticket price.
The agreement also introduces new consumer-friendly measures, including a ban on airlines denying boarding to passengers due to no-shows under certain circumstances – such as for PRMs, pregnant travellers, and unaccompanied minors.