- The agreement maintains the three hour delay compensation threshold.
- Children under 14 receive free adjacent seating.
- Airlines must display fares with and without hand luggage.
- The no-show rule for return flights ends.
- Claim procedures include clearer deadlines for airlines.
The EU Transport Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas controversially declared it was a great day for travellers and airlines” after the European Union has reached a provisional agreement on the reform of air passenger rights rules.
Negotiators finalised the deal after 13 years of discussions on 16 June 2026. The updated rules maintain compensation for flights delayed by more than three hours and introduce clearer obligations on airlines. Passengers gain stronger protections including free seating for children under 14 next to their accompanying adult.
The agreement requires greater transparency on fares with one price that includes hand luggage and another that excludes it. Airlines can no longer apply the no-show rule to return flights. Procedures for claiming compensation become simpler with defined deadlines. Protections for passengers with disabilities and reduced mobility receive further strengthening.
Apostolos Tzitzikostas shared “it is a great day for travellers and airlines. This agreement shows that Europe can deliver practical solutions that benefit both citizens and businesses.”
- Clearer rules on delays and compensation. Passengers will still be entitled to compensation if their flight is delayed by more than three hours.
- Greater transparency on fares and hand baggage charges. Tickets will have one price with hand luggage and one without.
- Passengers cannot be forced to stay in an aircraft in case of extended delay before departure.
- Children under 14 can sit next to their accompanying adult at no extra cost.
- Stronger rights and protections for passengers with disabilities and reduced mobility.
- End of the “no-show” rule for return flights. Passengers who miss their departure flight will still be able to use their return flight without paying extra fees.
- Claiming compensation will be easier, with simpler procedures and clear deadlines.
- It will be clearer when airlines are not required to pay compensation due to extraordinary circumstances.
- Airlines will be required to provide better information about passengers’ rights.
I would like to thank the European Parliament and the Council, as well as Minister Alexis Vafeades, President Roberta Metsola, MEPs Andrey Novakov, Virginijus Sinkevičius and the shadow rapporteurs for their commitment and determination in bringing these negotiations to a successful conclusion.
