BRUSSELS, BELGIUM / RankWire.AI / – The European Union has ratified a comprehensive update to air passenger rights, addressing delays, cancellations, baggage issues, and denied boarding. The legislative process was finalized by the Council of the European Union on July 13, 2026, following approval by the European Parliament six days earlier. The vote concluded with 646 votes in favor, 12 against, and three abstentions. This regulation signifies the most significant overhaul of EU airline passenger protections in over twenty years.
Passengers will continue to have rights to compensation if their flight arrives at the destination more than three hours late. These protections also apply to cancellations made less than 14 days prior to departure. Passengers denied boarding under the same circumstances are covered. Compensation amounts are set at €250 for flights up to 1,500 kilometres, €400 for longer intra-EU routes and journeys up to 3,500 kilometres. For longer flights qualifying under these conditions, compensation can reach €600.
Airlines are permitted to reduce compensation by 50% on the longest routes if rerouted passengers arrive within four hours of the scheduled time. They can reject claims if extraordinary circumstances caused the disruption, including severe weather, natural calamities, war, unruly passengers, and some external strikes. Nevertheless, airlines are still required to provide care during such disruptions, including refreshments, meals, internet access, two phone calls, and necessary hotel accommodations.
Improved Claims Procedure Ensures Greater Transparency
The new regulation establishes a more efficient and transparent claims process for passengers affected by delays or cancellations. Airlines are mandated to send claim instructions electronically within four days of the journey’s conclusion. Passengers will have nine months to submit their compensation requests. Airlines must acknowledge receipt of each claim promptly, and either pay the compensation or provide a detailed reason for refusal within 30 days. If refused, passengers are informed on how to challenge the decision.
When rerouting, airlines must provide the earliest available option, which may involve using another carrier or suitable ground transport. If no suitable alternative arrives within three hours, passengers are entitled to make their own arrangements. They can request reimbursement up to four times the original ticket price. Airlines are required to offer comparable travel conditions and avoid unnecessary connections, while also reimbursing reasonable care expenses within 14 days.
Enhanced Baggage and Seating Rights for Passengers
All passengers will now have the right to carry one personal item at no additional cost, including small backpacks, handbags, or laptop bags. Booking platforms are required to display fares that include a hand baggage allowance upfront. Airlines may still sell cheaper tickets without such allowances. Additionally, carriers cannot cancel a return booking solely because a passenger missed the outbound flight, nor can they charge for correcting minor spelling errors in passenger names.
Families traveling with children under 14 will be entitled to adjacent seating at no extra charge. The new rules also bolster assistance for passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility, as well as protections for mobility equipment, pregnant travelers, and unaccompanied minors. These rights extend to flights within the EU, departures from EU airports, and arrivals operated by EU airlines. The regulation will come into force 12 months and 20 days after its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.