If you’ve ever been stuck at an airport wondering whether your airline will pay for your cancelled flight or whether you can bring a wheelie bag without extra charge, help is on the way. EU countries have approved a major reform of air passenger rights that will come into force in 2027, affecting everything from baggage rules to compensation claims.
The reform, agreed on June 12, 2026, between the Cyprus Council presidency and the European Parliament, aims to strike a better balance between airline and passenger interests. Under the new rules, airlines must include in the basic ticket price not just a small under-seat bag but also a trolley bag that goes in the overhead bin. However, passengers can opt out of the trolley bag and receive a discount, and airlines decide the size and weight limits. The rules also ban fees for seating parents next to children under 14, and for passengers with disabilities and their accompanying person.
“Explaining the EU's new air passenger rights reform and what it means for UK travellers.”
Most rights for delayed or cancelled flights stay the same. Passengers can still claim compensation ranging from €250 to €600, depending on flight length, when a flight is cancelled or delayed by at least three hours. For flights over 3,500 kilometres, the new rules clarify that delays of three to four hours mean €300 compensation, while delays over four hours or cancellations mean €600. Airlines must also make it easier for passengers to file claims.
Why does this matter for UK travellers? Even though the UK left the EU, these rules apply to all flights within the EU and to flights operated by EU airlines. So if you fly with Ryanair, easyJet, or any EU carrier, or if your journey starts or ends in the EU, you will benefit from the updated protections. The reforms could also influence UK domestic rules in the future.
Here are some key questions answered:
Q: Will I have to pay extra for my carry-on bag now? No. The basic fare must include a trolley bag. You can choose to pay less if you don’t need it, but airlines set the size and weight limits, so check before you fly.
Q: Can I still claim compensation if my flight is delayed? Yes. You keep the right to €250–€600 for delays of three hours or more, or cancellations. For long-haul flights over 3,500 km, you get €300 for delays of 3–4 hours and €600 for delays over four hours or cancellations.
Q: Will I be charged extra to sit next my child? No. Airlines cannot charge fees to seat parents or carers next to children under 14, or to seat passengers with disabilities next to their companion.
The European Parliament must still vote on the compromise, with a final plenary vote expected in July 2026. If approved, the new rules will take effect in the second half of 2027. Until then, the current rules remain in place.