EU agrees stronger air passenger rights, including free cabin bags

Air travellers across the European Union are set to gain stronger and clearer protections after the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union reached a landmark political agreement to update passenger rights legislation for the first time in more than two decades.

The deal, concluded after 12 years of negotiations, modernises rules first introduced in 2004 and aims to address long-standing complaints about inconsistent enforcement, unclear compensation procedures and additional charges imposed by some airlines.

Compensation rules unchanged

Among the most significant changes is the preservation of passengers’ right to compensation for flights arriving more than three hours late.

During negotiations, EU member states had proposed raising the threshold for compensation eligibility to delays exceeding four hours, but lawmakers ultimately rejected the change.

Under the agreement, compensation levels remain unchanged at €250 for flights up to 1,500 kilometres, €400 for intra-EU flights and journeys between 1,500km and 3,500km, and €600 for longer routes.

Passengers will also continue to be entitled to compensation if their flight is cancelled less than 14 days before departure.

Free personal item guaranteed

A major win for consumer groups is the introduction of a guaranteed right to carry a personal item free of charge. Airlines will no longer be able to impose additional fees for a small bag, backpack or handbag that fits beneath the seat in front.

The revised legislation also bans the controversial “no-show” practice, under which airlines cancel a passenger’s onward or return flight if they fail to board an earlier segment of the same booking.

Faster claims and clearer communication

New rules are intended to simplify compensation claims and improve communication during disruptions.

Airlines must inform passengers electronically of their rights within 96 hours of arrival if they may be entitled to compensation. They will be required to acknowledge claims immediately and provide a response within 30 days, either paying compensation or offering a clear explanation for rejecting the request.

Stronger assistance during disruptions

The agreement strengthens passengers’ rights to assistance during delays, including access to refreshments every two hours, meals after three hours and hotel accommodation with transport when overnight stays become necessary.

Passengers whose flights are cancelled or who are denied boarding must be offered rerouting within three hours. If airlines fail to provide an alternative, travellers can arrange their own transport and seek reimbursement of up to 400% of the original ticket price.

Additional protections for vulnerable travellers

Additional protections have been introduced for people with reduced mobility, pregnant passengers, children and unaccompanied minors. Families and accompanying carers must be seated together at no extra cost, while mobility aids and assistance dogs must travel free of charge.

Extraordinary circumstances still apply

Airlines will continue to be exempt from compensation obligations when delays or cancellations result from extraordinary circumstances beyond their control, including severe weather, natural disasters, armed conflicts, strikes or security incidents.

However, carriers must clearly explain why such exemptions apply and demonstrate that reasonable measures were taken to avoid disruption.

The agreement still requires formal approval from both the European Parliament and the Council before entering into force.