On July 7, 2026, the European Parliament approved significant revisions to air passenger rights, marking the culmination of more than a decade of negotiations within the European Union. The new rules, adopted with a vote of 646 in favor, 12 against, and 3 abstentions, aim to improve passenger protections and transparency.

Passengers are entitled to compensation for delays exceeding three hours, as well as for cancellations occurring less than 14 days before departure. Compensation amounts are set at €250 for flights up to 1,500 kilometers, €400 for intra-EU or flights between 1,500 and 3,500 kilometers, and €600 for longer distances. Airlines are required to inform passengers electronically within 96 hours of arrival about their rights and the procedures for claiming compensation. Clear communication is now mandatory.

Airlines must now display hand luggage-inclusive fares upfront. Passengers are allowed to carry one personal item free of charge. Additionally, airlines can offer reduced fares for passengers who choose not to bring hand luggage, with costs clearly displayed. Part of a broader initiative to ensure price transparency, particularly regarding cabin baggage, the measures address long-standing consumer complaints.

Seating arrangements for families traveling with children under 14 now require airlines to seat them together at no extra charge. Similar provisions apply to disabled passengers, those with reduced mobility, and pregnant women. Air travel becomes more accommodating for vulnerable groups.

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Passengers have up to nine months to file a compensation claim, and airlines must acknowledge receipt immediately and respond within 30 days with either payment or a justified refusal. During disruptions, passengers are entitled to assistance, including drinks after two hours and meals after three, with accommodation and transport provided if necessary.

The concept of 'extraordinary circumstances,' which can exempt airlines from compensation liability, has been clarified but not removed. The European Commission will provide a list of such circumstances to ensure consistent interpretation, including events like natural disasters, wars, severe weather, violent passengers, and strikes.

Extra charges for name spelling corrections and printed boarding passes are now prohibited, provided the passenger has checked in. Moreover, passengers can use their return flight even if they miss the outbound, as automatic cancellation of return flights for no-shows on the outbound leg is now forbidden.

The European Commission first proposed revisions in 2013, but progress was delayed due to differences among member states. An agreement between the European Parliament and the Council of the EU was finally reached in June 2026, paving the way for thorough updates to passenger rights.