EU Parliament requires airlines to seat families with children together at no charge

Major overhaul of air passenger rights approved

According to УНІАН — Туризм: The European Parliament has passed a new set of regulations governing air traveler protections, introducing several key changes aimed at making flying fairer and more comfortable. Under the updated rules, carriers must provide free adjacent seating for families traveling with children up to 14 years old, and also ensure suitable seating for passengers with disabilities and pregnant women without additional fees. The agreement follows over a decade of deliberations.

What changes for travelers

The new framework also dictates that the cost of one carry-on bag must be included in the base ticket price. Travelers who choose not to bring hand luggage can be offered a reduced fare. Previously, low-cost airlines often charged extra for seat assignments and deliberately split up families to pressure them into paying more. With these amendments, passengers are guaranteed clearer information about compensation if flights are delayed or canceled.

• If a flight is delayed by more than three hours, passengers will be entitled to compensation ranging from €250 to €600, depending on the distance of the route.
• If a flight is canceled, passengers can claim a full refund or choose an alternative itinerary.
• Airlines may reduce compensation by half on the longest routes if the arrival delay is less than four hours.

These changes are designed to improve the travel experience and strengthen passenger rights during air journeys. The reform also reflects growing public demand for greater transparency and fairness in aviation, especially as the transport sector continues to evolve. It could push airlines to improve their service and reduce disputes with customers.

The measures adopted by the European Parliament mark a significant step forward for air passenger rights. Source: European Parliament