What changed: The EU published Regulation (EU) 2026/2202 in the Official Journal on 2 October 2026. It amends the long-standing EU261 rules on compensation and assistance when flights are delayed, cancelled or boarding is denied. Adopted on 16 September 2026, it applies from 23 October 2027.
Who it affects
- Passengers on flights departing from an EU airport, and on EU airlines arriving in the EU, which is the existing EU261 scope.
- Travellers from South Africa, Zimbabwe and the wider region connecting through European hubs.
- Families and anyone who books hand-baggage-inclusive fares.
What the text says
- Compensation bands of €250, €400 and €600 remain, for arrivals three or more hours late, unless extraordinary circumstances apply.
- Passengers choose between a refund and rerouting after a cancellation or long delay.
- Airlines cannot deny boarding on a return flight because the outbound leg was missed.
- Fares must be shown with one item of hand baggage included before booking starts.
- Reasonable booking-error corrections should be free, and vouchers need the passenger's consent.
Key dates
- 16 September 2026: adopted.
- 2 October 2026: published in the Official Journal.
- 23 October 2027: the new rules apply.
What to do now
- Keep using the existing EU261 rules for any disruption before October 2027.
- Keep booking confirmations, boarding passes and delay evidence for any claim.
- Check the full text of the regulation for details that matter to your trip, such as definitions and time limits.
Confirm the current position with the official source before you travel. This is general information, not financial or legal advice.
