After 13 years of negotiations, the new EU Regulation 2202/2026 strengthens air passenger rights. From October 23, 2027, it will apply to all flights departing from EU airports, whatever the carrier’s nationality, and to flights into the EU operated by European airlines.
Baggage and boarding. Passengers may bring one free personal item up to 40x30x15 cm, plus food and drink. Airlines must first display fares including a wheeled cabin bag and cannot charge if it must be checked because bins are full. Printed boarding passes are free, apps and accounts cannot be required, and a name typo cannot lead to denied boarding. One name correction requested at least 48 hours ahead is free.
Delays and cancellations. Delays of more than three hours bring compensation of 250, 400 or 600 euros depending on distance, except in extraordinary circumstances. After five hours, passengers may cancel for a full refund. For cancellations announced less than 14 days ahead, passengers choose a refund or rerouting and may also be compensated. Refunds are due within seven days, and if no alternative is offered within three hours, passengers may book their own and claim up to 400% of the fare. Vouchers cannot be imposed.
Care. Airlines must provide meals, internet access, two phone calls and, when needed, a hotel and transfers. Passengers cannot be kept on a grounded aircraft for more than two hours, and airports must offer free drinking water and device charging.
Connections and overbooking. Airlines must reroute passengers who miss a connection on a single booking, with refunds if no solution is found within five hours. Buyers of separate tickets must be warned these protections may not apply. Overbooked passengers receive 250 to 600 euros plus a refund or alternative flight.
Families and passengers with disabilities. Children under 14 and passengers with disabilities must sit next to their companions free of charge, and strollers travel free to the aircraft door. Lost or damaged mobility aids are fully compensated, and downgraded passengers get 30% to 75% of the fare back.
Claims. Damaged luggage must be reported within seven days, delayed luggage within 21. Airlines must flag possible compensation within 96 hours of the trip. Claims may be filed within nine months, and airlines must pay or justify a rejection within 30 days. Free contact channels are mandatory, with no paid lines, apps or accounts required.
