What changed: On 2 October 2026 the UK government announced that airlines will be barred from charging extra to seat a child under 14 next to a parent or accompanying adult, and from charging to correct simple name mistakes on a booking. Reports put the current cost of family seating at up to £104 on a return journey, and name corrections at up to £40.
Who it affects
- Families flying to or from the UK with children under 14.
- Any passenger who has mistyped a name when booking, such as a spelling slip.
- The government says all airlines operating in the UK are covered.
Key dates
- 2 October 2026: announcement.
- Start date: unclear. The GOV.UK announcement ties the changes to the Civil Aviation Bill becoming law (Royal Assent), while Euronews describes the rules as already in force. We have treated the official government position as the safer reading, so assume airlines may still charge until the law passes.
- Reports suggest ministers want it in place before the summer 2027 holidays. That is not a confirmed date.
What to do now
- If you are booking before the law takes effect, check the airline's seating charge for children and compare fares including that charge.
- Book children and adults on the same reservation, and check the names match each passport exactly.
- If a name is wrong, contact the airline early and ask what they will charge today.
- Keep an eye on the Civil Aviation Bill for a firm start date.
Details may change, so confirm the current rules with the official source before you travel. This is general information, not financial or legal advice.
