Last Updated on 19 January 2026 by Johan
TravelGuideEurope.eu – News for European Travelers
Europe is preparing a major upgrade to air passenger rights, and if you’re planning to fly in or out of the EU in the coming years, these changes could make your journey smoother, fairer, and more predictable. The European Parliament’s Committee on Transport and Tourism (TRAN) has just approved a strengthened set of rules designed to protect travelers when flights go wrong.
Why This Matters for Tourists
Flight delays, cancellations, and overbooking are among the most frustrating travel experiences. The EU has had passenger protections since 2004, but lawmakers argue that the system needs modernizing to reflect today’s aviation realities. The newly approved reforms aim to close loopholes, simplify claims, and ensure airlines treat passengers consistently and fairly.
Key Protections That Will Stay
The committee rejected attempts to weaken existing rights. That means:
- Compensation for delays remains available after 3 hours
- Payouts stay between €300 and €600, depending on flight distance
- No reduction in compensation levels, despite pressure from airlines
For travelers, this means the core protections you may already know remain firmly in place.
Free Carry‑On Baggage Guaranteed
One of the most traveler‑friendly updates is a clear rule on cabin baggage:
- One personal item (handbag, laptop bag, small backpack)
- One small carry‑on bag, up to 100 cm combined dimensions and 7 kg
Airlines will no longer be allowed to charge surprise fees for standard carry‑on luggage—a common frustration for budget travelers.
Better Support During Long Delays
If your flight is significantly delayed, airlines will be required to provide:
- Refreshments every two hours
- A meal after three hours
- Hotel accommodation when necessary
A proposed cap of three nights gives airlines predictability while ensuring travelers aren’t stranded without help.
Stronger Protections for Families & Vulnerable Travelers
The reforms place special emphasis on accessibility and inclusion:
- Priority boarding for passengers with reduced mobility, pregnant travelers, and families with young children
- Free seating together for parents and children under 14
- Guaranteed assistance at airports—and compensation if airport failures cause you to miss your flight.
This is a major win for families and travelers who need extra support.
Faster Refunds & Easier Claims
To reduce bureaucracy and reliance on claims agencies, airlines will need to:
- Send pre‑filled refund and compensation forms within 48 hours of a disruption
- Accept claims for up to one year
- Apply the rules to both cancellations and long delays
This should make the process far more traveler‑friendly.
Airlines Push Back
Not everyone is celebrating. Major airline associations—including IATA and Airlines for Europe—warn that the new rules could raise ticket prices and reduce flexibility. They argue that passengers care more about low fares and punctuality than higher compensation levels.
Still, the European Parliament appears determined to prioritize consumer protection.
What Happens Next?
The proposal now moves to a full parliamentary vote, followed by negotiations with EU ministers and the European Commission. If approved, the updated rules could become one of the most significant upgrades to EU air travel rights in two decades.
What This Means for Your Next Trip
For tourists, the message is simple:
Europe wants to make flying fairer and more predictable.
Whether you’re planning a weekend city break or a multi‑country adventure, these strengthened protections could make your journey smoother—and give you more confidence when booking flights across the continent.
Source: Tourism Review – “Strengthening EU Air Passenger Rights Is Underway” tourism-review.com