The European Council has approved new aviation rules that will transform the booking experience for holidaymakers, mandating that airlines display the price of hand luggage at the start of the booking process. The regulation, set to take effect from mid-2027, applies to all flights within the European Union, to the EU, and departing from the EU, including those operated by non-EU carriers.
Key Changes for Passengers
Under the new framework, airlines can no longer lure customers with a cheap basic fare and then add baggage charges at checkout. Instead, the total cost including hand luggage must be shown upfront. Additionally, the rules prohibit airlines from denying boarding on a return flight if a passenger missed the outbound leg—a practice known as 'no shows'.
Passengers with reduced mobility gain new rights: compensation if airports fail to meet accessibility standards, and a guarantee that specialised equipment will be replaced free of charge if lost or damaged.
Impact on UK Travellers
While UK passengers are not automatically covered by these EU rules, experts believe European airlines will likely apply the same standards to all customers to avoid operating under dual guidelines. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander is reportedly considering enshrining similar rights in UK law, according to Sky News.
Compensation and Assistance
Compensation for cancellations and delays remains largely unchanged: €250 for flights under 1,500 km, €400 for flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km, and €600 for longer flights. During delays, airlines must provide refreshments every two hours, a meal after three hours, and further meals every five hours (up to three per day), along with internet access and two phone calls.
Cypriot politician Alexis Vafeades announced the new laws, stating: “This modernised framework will deliver certainty, fairness and stronger protection for millions of European air passengers. The agreement strikes a fair balance for our airlines, helping preserve connectivity that is vital to the EU’s internal market and its citizens.”
