EU adopts revised air passenger rights rules to take effect in 2027

The European Parliament and Council approved a reform of the EU air‑passenger rights regulation (EC261) in July 2026, with the measures expected to become legally binding in the second half of 2027 after a twelve‑month transition period. The compensation amounts remain unchanged – €250, €400 or €600 depending on flight distance – but the new rules tighten claim procedures. Airlines must notify passengers of their rights within four days of a flight and provide a standard EU‑wide claim form. Passengers then have nine months to submit a request, and airlines must either pay or give a reasoned refusal within thirty days. The reform also bans the “no‑show” clause and introduces a free hand‑luggage allowance, mandatory price transparency and guaranteed seating for families with children. Consumer group BEUC estimates that the changes could help recover up to €3.2 billion in unpaid compensation each year.

The update follows criticism that passengers often fail to claim due to complex processes and lack of information. Officials highlighted that “the failure of existing rules has driven the growth of claim agencies,” emphasizing the need for a simpler, direct compensation system.