EU adopts sweeping air passenger rights overhaul, bans hand‑baggage fees

The European Parliament and Council reached agreement to revise Regulation 261/2004, the EU’s air passenger rights regime that has not been updated for more than two decades. The package keeps existing compensation levels for delays and cancellations (250 €, 400 €, 600 € depending on distance) and introduces clearer claim procedures, requiring airlines to inform passengers of their rights within 96 hours and to resolve complaints within 30 days.

New consumer‑focused rules require airlines to display the full fare, including hand‑luggage, at the start of the booking process and prohibit extra charges for a cabin bag up to seven kilograms. A minimum personal‑item size of 40 × 30 × 15 cm is set, while airlines must allow families with children under 14 to sit together without a surcharge and improve assistance for passengers with reduced mobility. The reforms also ban “no‑show” policies on return legs, and give travellers the right to arrange alternative transport and claim reimbursement if an offered replacement is inadequate.

Low‑cost carriers have criticised the measures, with Ryanair’s CEO Michael O’Leary calling the rules “trash regulations” that could force higher advertised prices.