16.06.2026 09:10
The European Union has reached an agreement on new regulations strengthening the rights of air passengers. The regulation preserves the right to free carry-on baggage while maintaining passengers' right to compensation of up to 600 euros (32,000 TL) for flights delayed by more than three hours or canceled within the last 14 days. The new rules also include allowing families to sit together for free, banning the "no-show" practice, and providing passengers with more comprehensive information.
European Union institutions have reached an agreement in long-standing negotiations on air passenger rights. The EU Council announced that after 13 years of discussions between member states and the European Parliament, a consensus was reached on regulations granting new rights to passengers.
The new rules preserve passengers' right to compensation in cases of delays and cancellations, while also continuing the practice of free carry-on baggage.
COMPENSATION RIGHT TO CONTINUE
According to the regulation, passengers may claim compensation if the flight arrives at the destination with a delay of more than 3 hours or is canceled less than 14 days before departure.
Compensation amounts will vary based on flight distance. Passengers may receive up to 250 euros for short-haul flights, 400 euros for medium-haul flights, and 600 euros (32,000 TL) for long-haul flights.
Airlines will be required to inform passengers within a maximum of 96 hours in case of delays subject to compensation. Companies must respond to applications within 30 days at the latest.
FREE CARRY-ON BAGGAGE PRACTICE TO CONTINUE
Under the new regulation, one carry-on baggage right will continue to be included in ticket prices. This will allow passengers to more easily compare airline prices during the booking phase.
NO EXTRA FEES FOR FAMILIES
The EU's new rules also bring significant rights for families. Family members, passengers with reduced mobility, and their companions will not pay extra fees to sit together on the aircraft.
Additionally, some restrictions will be lifted for pregnant passengers, unaccompanied minors, and persons with reduced mobility.
RIGHT TO MEALS AND ACCOMMODATION FOR DELAYS
Passengers' rights to assistance in case of flight disruptions have also been clarified. Depending on the waiting time, passengers will be provided with drinks, meals, internet access, and phone call facilities.
When one or more overnight stays are required, airlines will have to provide free hotel and transportation services.
"NO-SHOW" PRACTICE BANNED
With the new regulation, the "no-show" practice, which prevents a passenger from boarding the return flight on the grounds that they did not use the outbound flight, will also be prohibited.
Furthermore, airlines will have to offer passengers alternative transportation options within 3 hours of flight cancellations. If companies fail to provide this, passengers may organize their own transport and claim refunds of up to 400% of the ticket price.