EU changes air travel rules: Children to sit next to their parents free of charge, here's what every passenger will benefit from

The European Union has approved a new package of air travel reforms, strengthening passenger rights and introducing changes to booking rules, compensation procedures, and the handling of claims against airlines.

The new rules, approved by the Council of the European Union following endorsement by the European Parliament, are expected to take effect in mid-2027. They will apply to flights departing from EU airports, as well as flights to EU destinations operated by European airlines.

One of the key changes concerns seating arrangements. Children under the age of 14 will have the right to sit next to their parents free of charge, without paying an additional seat reservation fee. The same right will also apply to pregnant women and passengers with reduced mobility, who will be able to travel next to their companions at no extra cost.

Under the new rules, airlines will also be required to correct passenger name errors on tickets free of charge. In addition, airlines and booking platforms must display the total ticket price, including the cost of carry-on baggage, allowing travelers to compare offers more easily.

Another important change is that passengers who do not use the outbound flight of a round-trip ticket will no longer automatically lose the right to use their return flight.

For delays and cancellations, the basic compensation rules will remain in force. Passengers will continue to be entitled to compensation when a delay reaches at least three hours and the airline is responsible. However, airlines will not be liable for delays or cancellations caused by extraordinary circumstances such as severe weather, natural disasters, disruptive passengers, or strikes by airport staff.

The reforms also aim to simplify compensation claim procedures. Passengers will receive written information about their rights within 96 hours after the completion of their journey and will have nine months to submit a compensation claim. Airlines will be required to pay compensation or provide a reasoned response within 30 days.

If a journey is disrupted, passengers will be entitled to food and refreshments depending on the length of the delay, as well as free hotel accommodation and transportation whenever necessary.

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