Free Cabin Luggage & Flight Delay Compensation For EU Air Travellers in 2027

Air passengers across the European Union will continue to enjoy free cabin luggage and compensation for delayed flights under a new agreement reached between the European Council and the European Parliament after more than a decade of negotiations.

The deal preserves the right to financial compensation when flights are delayed by at least three hours, despite efforts by some member states and airlines to increase the threshold.

Under the revised rules, passengers will be entitled to €300 compensation for delays on flights exceeding 3,500 kilometres and €600 if delays exceed four hours or if the flight is ultimately cancelled.

The agreement also brings an end to cabin baggage fees as a standard practice.

Travellers will be entitled to carry a free personal item measuring up to 40cm by 30cm by 15cm, as well as a small wheeled suitcase or backpack.

Airlines, booking platforms and intermediaries will also be required to display ticket prices inclusive of cabin luggage from the start of the booking process, improving price transparency.

The new rules are expected to come into force in 2027. While airlines will be allowed to offer discounted fares to passengers who choose to travel without hand luggage, standard tickets must include both a personal item and a larger carry-on bag.

The revision updates passenger protection rules first introduced in 2004. European lawmakers argued that the rapid growth of low-cost carriers and changing travel habits made reform necessary, while consumer groups welcomed stronger safeguards for travellers across the bloc.

#MaltaDaily