EU Passengers Gain Free Carry-On, Name Corrections, and Seat Rights in 2027 Travel Reform

The European Union has approved a comprehensive reform of passenger rights that will take effect in 2027, marking the first major update in over 20 years. The new regulations will apply to flights departing from EU countries and, in some cases, flights arriving into the EU, affecting millions of travelers including Israelis flying in Europe.

Key changes include allowing passengers to bring a carry-on bag measuring up to 40×30×15 cm free of charge, in addition to a personal item stored under the seat. Airlines and booking platforms will be required to display the full ticket price, including all mandatory fees, at the start of the booking process. The reform also eliminates fees for correcting minor spelling errors in passenger names.

The policy on missed outbound flights will change as well; airlines will no longer be allowed to cancel return flights solely because the passenger missed the first leg. Families will benefit from free seat selection for children under 14 to sit next to a parent, a right extended to pregnant women and passengers with disabilities needing assistance. Additionally, passengers who check in online can print boarding passes at the airport without extra charges.

Regarding delays and cancellations, airlines must provide clearer written information about passenger rights within 96 hours of disruption. Passengers will have nine months to file compensation claims, with airlines required to respond within 30 days. Extended delays will entitle travelers to refreshments, meals, accommodation, and transport as needed, except in extraordinary circumstances like war, severe weather, natural disasters, or ground staff strikes.

Israeli travelers will be impacted since the rules apply to flights from the EU to Israel and flights operated by European carriers such as Wizz Air, Lufthansa, and Air France from Israel to Europe. This promises fewer unexpected fees and better protections for Israeli passengers.

Low-cost carriers have criticized the reform, warning it could undermine their competitive pricing models and lead to higher base fares. Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary specifically condemned the changes. Until the new rules come into force in 2027, the current passenger protection laws from 2004 remain in effect.