The Council and European Parliament have reached a landmark agreement to update EU air passenger rights, introducing clearer, simpler rules and stronger protections.
A key change is the obligation for airlines to cover the full cost of replacing or repairing lost or damaged mobility equipment, an area where compensation had previously been capped at around 3,000 euro, often far below real costs.
Airlines will also be required to provide temporary replacement equipment at no charge when needed and compensate for injured assistance dogs.
The agreement further expands rights during travel disruptions. Passengers with disabilities will now be entitled to compensation and rerouting if they miss a flight due to delays or failures in assistance services. In addition, they will have the right to sit with accompanying persons free of charge.
These changes respond to widespread concern about accessibility in air travel. Recent findings indicate that nearly 70% of persons with disabilities feel discriminated against when flying, underlining the need for stronger rules.
EU institutions are now expected to formally adopt the agreement, with stakeholders calling for swift approval and consistent implementation across all member states.
Read the orginal press release.
- Publication date
- 18 June 2026
- Author
- European Council