The European Parliament has agreed a set of new rules for air travellers that will significantly impact budget airlines, with the UK expected to adopt the changes soon. The reforms will particularly affect carriers like Ryanair, easyJet, Wizz Air, and Jet2, requiring them to display ticket prices that include hand luggage costs upfront. Airlines will no longer be able to charge extra fees for correcting name spelling errors or providing printed boarding passes.
Financial Impact on Passengers
UK travel expert Simon Calder warned the changes could add "£20-£40 to existing one-way fares on easyJet, Ryanair and Wizz Air", though airlines may offer discounts for passengers travelling with minimal baggage. This marks the first major update to passenger rights since 2004, aiming to provide greater protection against travel disruption.
Compensation and Assistance
Compensation rules have been strengthened: passengers are entitled to €250-€600 depending on flight distance for delays over three hours or cancellations within 14 days. Airlines must provide refreshments every two hours during delays and overnight accommodation for extended disruptions.
Family and Accessibility Protections
Families will benefit from new seating rules ensuring children under 14 can sit next to accompanying adults without extra charges. The same protection extends to passengers with disabilities and pregnant women. European Parliament President Roberta Metsola said: "This agreement will strengthen the rights of air passengers across Europe. Parliament fought hard to make travel fairer and procedures clearer, and this is what we have delivered."
