European Union reaches agreement on new airline passenger rights

The European Parliament and Council have reached a compromise on a reform of EU passenger rights after more than a decade of negotiations. The agreement, set to be voted on by the Parliament's Transport Committee and then the full Parliament, will introduce mandatory inclusion of cabin baggage— a personal item (40 × 30 × 15 cm) and a larger cabin suitcase (55 × 40 × 20 cm, up to 7 kg)—in the base fare. Airlines must display the cost of this baggage clearly during the booking process.

Compensation rules are clarified: passengers delayed three hours or more, or whose flight is cancelled less than 14 days before departure, can claim €250 for trips up to 1 500 km, €400 for 1 500–3 500 km, and €600 for longer journeys. Airlines must inform passengers electronically within 96 hours of arrival, provide a single easy contact method, and respond to compensation claims within 14 days. Additional assistance rights include meals, internet access, two free phone calls, and, if an overnight stay is required, free hotel accommodation and transport. The rules also prohibit charging for a child’s seat next to a parent, extend protections for persons with disabilities and pregnant women, and ban the denial of boarding due to “no‑show” if the passenger holds a return ticket. The reforms are expected to take effect mid‑2025, with the aim of greater price transparency and passenger protection across the EU.