EU Approves Major Aviation Reform to Ease Passenger Fees and Improve Rights by 2027

The European Union has approved a comprehensive reform of aviation regulations set to take effect in the second half of 2027, aiming to simplify travel and reduce costs for passengers. The new rules will apply to EU-based airlines such as Ryanair, Wizz Air, and Vueling, and introduce several key changes to current practices.

One significant change is the prohibition of fees for carrying a personal item up to 40x30x15 cm and weighing up to 7 kg, in addition to a small bag or backpack. Additionally, correcting name errors on boarding passes will become free of charge, a notable shift as some airlines currently charge up to 750 shekels for minor name corrections. Passengers who miss their outbound flight will still be allowed to board their return flight, addressing the common "no show" issue where return flights are automatically canceled.

The reform also mandates that children under 14 can sit next to their parents without extra fees, and pregnant women or passengers with mobility impairments will receive free seat reservations next to their companions. Ryanair has already announced it will allow families to sit together for free in designated rear sections of the plane.

Transparency will improve as airlines must disclose all fees and surcharges upfront during booking, not just at the final stage. Compensation procedures for delayed or canceled flights will be clearer, requiring airlines to provide written details of passenger rights within 96 hours after the flight. Passengers will have nine months to file claims, with airlines obligated to respond within 30 days. In case of delays, passengers will be entitled to refreshments after two hours, meals after three hours, additional meals every five hours, and free hotel accommodation and transfers if overnight stays are necessary.

The current rules, in place since 2004, will remain until the new regulations come into force. European Parliament member Andrey Novakov called the reform a victory for both passengers and European aviation, highlighting the end of over 13 years of regulatory stagnation. It is important to note that these rules will not apply to flights departing from airports outside the EU, such as London to Madrid, but return flights from the EU to non-EU airports will be covered.