Key facts
- New EU air passenger rights rules approved by European Parliament and Council.
- Regulations take effect mid-2027.
- Compensation of €250-€600 for delays over three hours.
- Free seating for children under 14 and passengers with disabilities.
- Airlines must include carry-on luggage costs in base fare.
- Name-spelling correction fees banned.
The European Parliament and the European Council have confirmed a deal to update air passenger rights, with the new regulations set to take effect in mid-2027. The European Parliament endorsed the updated rules with a vote of 646 in favor and 12 against. These measures aim to strengthen passenger protections, addressing issues like flight delays, cancellations, and reimbursement procedures. Key changes include compensation of €250 to €600 for flights delayed by more than three hours, depending on distance. Reimbursement or re-routing for cancelled flights remains unchanged. Passengers will also benefit from free correction of name-spelling mistakes, free seating next to accompanying persons for children under 14 and passengers with disabilities, and the inclusion of carry-on luggage costs in the base fare. Airlines must provide clear instructions on compensation and clarify the cause of disruptions, which can only be cancelled due to extraordinary circumstances.