Overview
- The European Council formally approved the package on July 14, 2026, with the rules expected to take effect around mid‑2027 and a transition period for carriers and national regulators.
- Airlines must show the full ticket price including hand luggage at the start of the booking flow to stop basic fares from being inflated by late baggage charges.
- Carriers will be barred from denying boarding on return flights when a passenger missed the outbound leg and must improve support for travellers with reduced mobility, including compensation and free replacement of specialised equipment.
- Existing monetary compensation bands for cancellations and long delays remain in place at €250, €400 and €600, and new assistance standards specify refreshments, meals, internet and phone access during delays.
- The rules cover flights within, to and from the EU and bind non‑EU carriers on those routes; UK law will not automatically change but the UK transport minister is reportedly considering similar measures and airlines may adopt the same practices for simplicity.