CAA UK

For 2026, the CAA has implemented guidelines focused on the energy transition and digital passenger protection:

• Sustainability (SAF Mandate): Strict implementation of the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) mandate, requiring airlines to report transparently on emissions per passenger for all flights departing from the UK.
• New Cybersecurity Standards: New obligations for operators and airports regarding the resilience of automated check-in systems and the protection of biometric data.
• UK261 Revision: Adjustments to compensation values for delays and cancellations to account for cumulative inflation, as well as a ban on "redemption fees" (administrative charges) for name changes on short-haul bookings.
• Air Traffic Management: Introduction of new remote control technologies aimed at reducing the incidence of operational cancellations caused by technical failures in air traffic control.

The CAA requires full transparency regarding the "all-in price" of a ticket at the time of booking:

• Price Transparency: Hiding mandatory fees (such as airport taxes, government taxes, and fuel surcharges) is prohibited. The value initially displayed must be the final price the consumer will pay.
• Cabin Baggage: The CAA has reinforced guidelines to ensure airlines do not mislead passengers about what constitutes "hand luggage." If there are strict size limits, these must be clearly and prominently displayed before the ticket is purchased.
• Checked Baggage: Pricing policy remains a free-market matter, but advertising must be clear regarding fare restrictions (e.g., "Basic" vs. "Premium" tickets).

The UK maintains strict rules (via DEFRA, but enforced by the CAA at airports):

• Cabin Prohibition: On flights operated by UK airlines, pets (except for trained assistance dogs) may not be transported in the cabin. They must be shipped as manifested cargo or air freight.
• Assistance Dogs: The carriage of recognized assistance dogs in the cabin is mandatory and free of charge, provided that training by an entity certified by *Assistance Dogs International (ADI)* or the *International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF)* can be proven.
• Documentation: An *Animal Health Certificate (AHC)* is mandatory for entry into or departure from the UK, alongside up-to-date microchipping and rabies vaccinations.

• Adjacent Seating: The CAA has published strong guidelines recommending that airlines accommodate children under 12 years old next to at least one parent or adult guardian at no extra cost.
• Equipment: The transport of one (foldable) pushchair and one child restraint device (car seat) is generally permitted free of charge in addition to the baggage allowance, though the exact policy should be confirmed with each airline.
• Bassinets: The availability of onboard bassinets (*skycots*) is subject to aircraft configuration and must be reserved at least 48 hours in advance.

Regulated by *Regulation (EC) 1107/2006* (as incorporated into UK law):

• Obligation to Assist: Airports and airlines have a legal obligation to provide free assistance to Passengers with Reduced Mobility (PRM), provided it is requested at least 48 hours before the flight.
• Mobility Equipment: Passengers have the right to transport two pieces of mobility equipment (e.g., manual or electric wheelchairs) free of charge.
• Medical Forms: The MEDIF form is only required if the passenger needs medical support on board (e.g., supplemental oxygen or a stretcher). The CAA encourages the use of the standardized IATA form to facilitate acceptance across different carriers.

• Passenger Rights (CAA Consumer Advice): https://www.caa.co.uk/passengers/
• Assistance Guide for People with Disabilities: https://www.caa.co.uk/passengers/prm/
• Baggage and Pricing Rules: https://www.caa.co.uk/passengers/resolving-travel-problems/how-the-caa-can-help/
• Animal Transport (DEFRA/CAA): https://www.gov.uk/bring-pet-to-great-britain
• UK261 Regulation (Delays and Cancellations): https://www.caa.co.uk/passengers/resolving-travel-problems/delays-and-cancellations/