New air travel rules were approved by the Council of the European Union on Monday, July 13. These will protect passengers’ rights against travel disruptions and further promote equality during flights.
The new guidance for the EU 2027
The regulations won’t take effect right away; they will be implemented in the summer of 2027.
These include:
- Children under 14 will have the right to board a plane with their parents without a seat reservation.
- Those who miss the outbound segment of their journey will still be allowed to make the return flight to avoid travel disruptions.
- Incorrect spelling of passengers’ names on boarding passes will be rectified at no cost.
- Price comparisons will be made more easily accessible on booking platforms.
- Those who are pregnant will be allowed to have a companion who can travel without booking a seat reservation.
- Airlines will be required to supply fliers with printed boarding passes at no cost.
- Travellers who are made to switch to a lower class will be reimbursed.
- Small bags and backpacks will be allowed on for free.
Changes to European passengers’ rights
Important newly introduced rights for those with specific needs are:
- Airports that are unable to supply care for persons with specific needs will have to provide a refund.
- Priority for assistance and rerouting.
- Travel with mobility equipment without extra cost.
- Replacement for damaged equipment with no cost.
A notable existing right which is changing for EU travellers is compensation for a delayed or cancelled flight. This is heavily circumstantial, as compensation for flights affected by weather or other unforeseen issues, such as disorderly passengers, will give airlines the option to refuse reimbursement.
This will remain largely the same, but the refund process for fliers will become less complicated as the new rules take effect.
Will this affect the way you travel? If so, how? Share in the comments.
