These reforms, which have been under discussion for more than a decade, are designed to update the EU’s passenger rights framework while preserving existing compensation protections for flight disruptions.

Under the new rules, airlines will be prohibited from imposing additional seat selection fees on parents wishing to sit next to children under the age of 14, addressing one of the most common complaints from family travellers, many of whom have faced extra costs to avoid being separated during flights.

This agreement was reached following months of negotiations between EU institutions and member states, with lawmakers expected to give provisional approbal to the package before it proceeds towards formal adoption.

Compensation rules unchanged

Despite efforts by some EU governments to amend compensation arrangements for delayed and cancelled flights, the existing system will remain in place.

Passengers will continue to be entitled to compensation ranging from €250 to €600, depending on the distance travelled, when flights are delayed by three hours or more or cancelled under qualifying circumstances.

Airlines will also remain responsible for providing assistance such as meals, accommodation and alternative travel arrangements when required.

Consumer advocates welcomed the decision to retain the current protections, which had come under pressure during the negotiations.

Baggage cost transparency

While proposals to prohibit fees for carry-on luggage were ultimately dropped, the new legislation introduces stricter transparency requirements for airlines and ticket-selling platforms.

Companies will be required to display fares that clearly show the cost of hand luggage from the beginning of the booking process, making it easier for passengers to compare prices and avoid unexpected charges later.

Supporters of the change argue that clearer pricing will help consumers make more informed purchasing decisions and improve competition across the sector.

Minor name corrections

Another measure included in the reform package prevents airlines from charging passengers for correcting minor spelling errors in booking details.

The change is intended to reduce administrative costs for travellers and eliminate fees that have often been criticised as disproportionate.

Political reform

The final agreement follows a lengthy political dispute over the future of passenger rights in Europe.

Last year, several EU member states attempted to accelerate changes through an expedited legislative procedure, prompting opposition from lawmakers across the political spectrum in the European Parliament.

The resistance led negotiators back to the table and ultimately resulted in a compromise that preserved existing compensation rights while introducing several new consumer protections.

Jan-Christoph Oetjen, a German member of the European Parliament involved in the negotiations, said lawmakers had successfully defended the rights of air passengers throughout the process.

Industry impact

For passengers, the reforms are expected to deliver practical benefits, particularly for families travelling with children.

The elimination of family seating fees should reduce both costs and stress during the booking process, while increased fare transparency will provide greater clarity over the true cost of travel.

Meanwhile, airlines will need to update booking systems and pricing displays to comply with the new requirements. They will also continue to operate under the existing compensation framework, which many carriers argue creates significant financial burdens during major disruptions.

Industry groups have previously argued that compensation obligations can encourage cancellations rather than prolonged delays, although lawmakers decided not to alter the current rules.

Consumer protection

The reforms arrive as the European aviation industry continues to recover from the challenges of recent years, including the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, staffing shortages, rising operating costs and increasing environmental requirements.

Member states will be given time to implement the new provisions once the legislation is formally adopted.