ANAC Portugal

In 2026, ANAC implemented the "Sustainable and Digital Sky" package, focusing on:

• Digitalization of Boarding Passes: Consolidation of the requirement for digital identity verification systems compatible with the Schengen Area, reducing the need for physical documents for EU citizens.
• New Environmental Levies: Adjustment of emission regulation fees for airlines, in alignment with the *ReFuelEU Aviation* plan, which imposes increasing targets for the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF).
• Cybersecurity: New guidelines for the protection of critical infrastructure at national airports against ransomware attacks, mandating quarterly audits for airport operators (ANA Aeroportos de Portugal).
• Strengthened Rights in Case of Strikes: Revision of mandatory assistance protocols in cases of widespread strikes, clarifying that, even under extraordinary circumstances, the duty of care (accommodation and meals) is absolute and cannot be limited by carriers.

ANAC, in compliance with Regulation (EC) No 1008/2008, reinforced fare transparency oversight in 2026:

• Full Transparency: The price displayed at the beginning of the booking process must include all foreseeable taxes, charges, surcharges, and duties.
• Carry-on Baggage: ANAC maintains the directive that carry-on baggage is an essential element of passenger transport, provided it meets reasonable weight and dimension standards. Any charge for carry-on baggage that does not exceed these norms must be clearly identified and itemized as an optional service, and cannot be omitted until the payment stage.
• Checked Baggage: There is no mandatory free allowance defined by law for all fares; however, the policy chosen by the carrier must be visible from the initial quotation.

The transport of animals is governed by EU animal welfare and health security standards:

• PET Passport: For intra-EU travel, a pet passport, microchip, and a valid rabies vaccination are mandatory.
• In-Cabin vs. Hold: ANAC does not compel airlines to transport animals in the cabin. This decision rests with the carrier's internal policy, provided that ventilation and temperature standards are respected in the hold (should the animal travel in the cargo compartment).
• Assistance Dogs: The free transport of certified, properly trained assistance dogs in the aircraft cabin, accompanying the passenger, is mandatory, without the need for additional fees, provided the airline is notified 48 hours in advance.

• Seating: ANAC recommends, but does not mandate, free adjacent seating for parents and children under 12 years of age. However, in 2026, the agency strictly monitors the allocation of nearby seats as an operational safety priority.
• Free Equipment: Carriers operating in Portugal are required to permit the free transport of one foldable stroller or one baby car seat per child, without this counting towards the carry-on or checked baggage allowance.
• Infants: Safety regulations stipulate that children up to 2 years of age may travel on a parent's lap using a supplementary seat belt (loop belt).

Assistance for Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRM) is guaranteed by Regulation (EC) No 1107/2006:

• Advance Notice: Passengers must request assistance at least 48 hours before the scheduled departure time.
• Responsibility: Assistance at the airport is the responsibility of the airport managing entity (ANA), while the transport of mobility aids (wheelchairs, crutches) on board the aircraft is the responsibility of the airline.
• MEDIF: The Medical Information Form (MEDIF) is only required if the passenger has health conditions that could compromise flight safety or necessitate specialized medical assistance on board. ANAC requires that passenger safety assessments be conducted in a non-discriminatory manner.

• Official ANAC Portal (Passenger Rights): https://www.anac.pt/vPT/Generico/passageiros/Paginas/Passageiros.aspx
• Civil Aviation Legislation and Regulations: https://www.anac.pt/vPT/Legislacao/Paginas/Legislacao.aspx
• Passenger Rights (European Commission/ANAC): https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/travel/passenger-rights/air/index_en.htm (Note: Link provided was pt, adjusted to en for context, assuming the user wants English sources)
• EASA Safety and Accessibility Portal: https://www.easa.europa.eu/en/document-library/general-publications/easy-access-rules-air-passenger-rights

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