Frankfurt: The EU’s overhaul of air passenger rights enters into force on 22 October 2026, after publication in the Official Journal on 2 October, although most provisions will apply only from 23 October 2027. The rules cover flights departing EU airports whatever the airline’s home country, plus flights from non-EU countries to the EU when an EU carrier operates them.
Baggage is the change travellers will notice first. Every passenger gets one free personal item of up to 40 by 30 by 15 centimetres, or small enough to fit under the seat in front. Airlines can still charge for larger cabin bags, but fares that include hand baggage must be shown by default. If hand baggage is moved to the hold because of capacity, safety or an aircraft change, no fee may be charged.
The updated air passenger rights also set clearer compensation. An arrival delay of three hours or more may qualify for €250 on flights up to 1,500 kilometres, €400 on longer intra-EU flights and trips of 1,500 to 3,500 kilometres, and €600 on other journeys. For a departure delay of five hours or more, passengers can decline the trip and claim reimbursement. After two hours on the ground, an aircraft should move to a gate or suitable position, subject to exceptions.
Cancellations bring a choice between reimbursement and rerouting. If an airline cannot offer rerouting within three hours, passengers may book their own, with costs capped at 400 percent of the ticket price plus intermediary fees. Refunds are generally due within seven calendar days, and vouchers need the passenger’s agreement.
Care duties under the new air passenger rights are spelled out too. Passengers get refreshments or meals, internet access and two phone calls, plus a hotel for necessary overnight stays, generally limited to three nights in extraordinary circumstances. If the airline fails to provide care, passengers can arrange it and claim reimbursement, normally within 14 days.
Procedure matters as much as the headline sums. Compensation requests can be filed within nine months of the scheduled departure. Airlines must send compensation information within 96 hours of the journey’s end and answer requests within 30 calendar days. Other complaints can be filed within 12 months. Printed boarding passes cannot carry extra charges, and passengers cannot be forced to use an app to get one.
A child under 14 must sit next to an accompanying adult at no extra cost, and strollers travel free to the gate. Airports with commercial traffic must offer free drinking water and device charging points. The Commission is also due to set rules for a voluntary Union Air Passenger Rights Label by 23 October 2027, giving travellers a quick way to compare how carriers treat air passenger rights.
