EU air travel reform: compensation of up to €600 and free hand baggage preserved

On the evening of June 15, 2026, the European Parliament and the Council of the EU agreed on a sweeping reform of air passenger rights — the first since 2004. The final vote is expected in July, and the new rules are due to enter into force in the second half of 2027. The negotiations lasted 13 years, and their conclusion fell during Cyprus’s presidency of the Council of the EU. Cyprus Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades said the agreement was the result of joint efforts and European cooperation.

What will airlines have to pay, and how much?

Passengers will retain the right to compensation if a flight is delayed by more than three hours, canceled less than 14 days before departure, or if boarding is denied. The payouts will be: €250 (up to 1,500 km), €400 (from 1,500 to 3,500 km) and €600 (over 3,500 km). The amount on long-haul flights may be halved if a quick alternative connection is offered. The carrier is exempt from payments only in extraordinary circumstances (natural disasters, war, airport strikes). But even then, they are required to provide passengers with drinks after 2 hours of waiting, food after 3 hours, and accommodation (for up to 3 nights) in the event of prolonged disruptions.

How can passengers now claim payment?

The procedure will become faster and more transparent. Within four days after the trip, the airline must send electronic instructions for claiming compensation, which must open without account registration or app installation. A passenger has 9 months to submit a claim, while the carrier has only 30 days to either pay the money or justify a refusal by citing force majeure.

What will change for families, passengers with disabilities and pregnant women?

Airlines will now be required to seat a child under 14 next to the accompanying adult free of charge. The same rule applies to pregnant women and passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility. If a person with a disability misses a flight because airport staff did not bring them to the boarding gate on time, they will be fully entitled to compensation, rebooking and assistance.

Will “hidden” surcharges disappear?

Ticket prices will become more transparent: airlines and aggregators must immediately show the final price including hand luggage. Each passenger will be able to bring one personal item free of charge into the cabin (a bag or backpack), although carriers will retain the right to offer discounts for those flying without any hand luggage at all. In addition, extra charges for correcting typos in a name and for printing a boarding pass, if online check-in has already been completed, are being fully abolished.