AESA

For 2026, AESA has implemented the following strategic guidelines:

• Digitalization of Complaint Protocol: Implementation of the unified Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) platform, requiring airlines to automate compensation responses for delays or cancellations via API with AESA.
• Sustainability (ReFuelEU Aviation): Entry into force of mandatory Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) usage targets for flights departing from Spanish airports, with strict monitoring by AESA regarding the transparency of costs passed on to tickets.
• Cybersecurity: New guidelines for the protection of critical airport infrastructures, mandating the update of protocols against ransomware attacks that could affect reservation and check-in systems.

In 2026, AESA maintains alignment with the jurisprudence of the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) regarding hand luggage:

• Transparency: Airlines are obligated to display the final ticket price (including mandatory taxes and surcharges) from the first step of the booking process.
• Hand Luggage: AESA reinforces that hand luggage containing essential items (medications, medical supplies, baby essentials) cannot be charged as an extra if it complies with safety measures and reasonable dimensions established by the carrier, prohibiting abusive charging practices that make air travel disproportionately expensive.

The transportation of animals in the cabin is governed by health and cabin safety regulations:

• Documentation: A European Pet Passport, microchip, and up-to-date rabies vaccination are mandatory.
• Limitations: AESA allows each airline to define its weight and size policies for pets in the cabin (generally up to 8-10kg including the carrier), but requires the carrier to be ventilated and escape-proof.
• Assistance Dogs: Free transport in the cabin for duly certified assistance dogs is mandatory, without the need for a carrier, regardless of size.

AESA's guidelines for 2026 guarantee:

• Seating: AESA requires airlines to prioritize the joint seating of minors with their legal guardians, prohibiting additional charges for this allocation whenever technically possible.
• Allowance: The free transport of one foldable baby stroller and one restraint system (child seat) per child is mandatory, at no additional cost, and can be checked in at the boarding gate.
• Assistance: Airlines must offer priority boarding to families with young children to facilitate their accommodation.

AESA applies Regulation (EC) 1107/2006, ensuring the right to mobility for Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRM):

• Assistance (PRM): Assistance requests must be made at least 48 hours in advance of the flight. The service is free of charge and must be requested from the airline or travel agency.
• MEDIF: The MEDIF (Medical Information Form) is only required if the passenger needs medical oxygen, a stretcher, or special care that may affect flight safety.
• Equipment: The free transport of up to two mobility aids (e.g., manual or electric wheelchair, crutches) in addition to the permitted baggage allowance is mandatory.

• Official AESA Portal (Passenger Rights): https://www.seguridadaerea.gob.es/es/ambitos/derechos-de-los-pasajeros
• PRM Guide (Accessibility): https://www.seguridadaerea.gob.es/es/ambitos/derechos-de-los-pasajeros/personas-con-movilidad-reducida
• Safety and Baggage Regulations (EASA/AESA): https://www.easa.europa.eu/en/document-library/general-publications/easy-access-rules-air-operations
• Conflict and Complaint Resolution: https://sede.seguridadaerea.gob.es/sede-aesa/catalogo-de-servicios/reclamaciones-de-pasajeros-por-incumplimiento-del-reglamento-261-2004