DGAC France

The Direction Générale de l'Aviation Civile (DGAC) is the French government body, under the ministry in charge of transport, that regulates civil aviation in France, including the overseas territories. As a member of EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency), France applies the European rules on aviation safety, air navigation and crew licensing; the DGAC is also the body that enforces air passenger rights in the country.

Official changes from this authority that affect passengers appear in this guide's updates as they are published. Each one is checked against the official document before it goes live.

The DGAC, in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1008/2008, mandates full price transparency:

• Baggage Fees: The final ticket price must include all mandatory fees and taxes from the very first step of the booking process.
• Hand baggage: the permitted dimensions and weight are set by each airline and must be shown before purchase.
• Prohibition of Hidden Practices: Charging additional fees for standard credit card payments or for essential services already included in the advertised fare is strictly prohibited.

The transport of animals in France is strictly regulated to prevent zoonotic diseases and ensure animal welfare:

• Health Regulations: Every animal (dog, cat, or ferret) must have a European Pet Passport, an identification microchip, and up-to-date rabies vaccinations (administered at least 21 days prior to travel).
• Categories: Small animals (typically up to 8 kg, including the transport carrier) are permitted in the cabin. Larger animals must travel in the pressurized cargo hold (AVIH).
• Restricted breeds: category 1 dogs (attack dogs) may not be brought into France; category 2 dogs have their own rules, and many airlines refuse these breeds.

• Seats: seat selection rules and fees vary by airline, so ask for seats together when booking. From 23 October 2027, Regulation (EU) 2026/2202 requires the airline to offer anyone accompanying a child under 14 on the same booking a seat next to the child free of charge.
• Equipment: strollers and car seats certified for use on board usually travel free, in addition to the baggage allowance, according to the airline's policy.
• Bassinets: Bassinet availability should be verified at the time of booking, with priority given on long-haul flights.

Governed by Regulation (EC) No 1107/2006, assistance is a fundamental right:

• Requests: Passengers with Reduced Mobility (PRM) must request assistance at least 48 hours in advance through the airline or travel agency.
• Wheelchairs: The transport of wheelchairs (manual or electric) must be free of charge, subject to the aircraft's safety limitations.
• MEDIF: For severe medical conditions, a MEDIF (Medical Information Form) may be required to certify the passenger's fitness to fly, ensuring the safety of both the patient and the crew.

• Official Portal of the DGAC (Direction Générale de l'Aviation Civile): https://www.ecologie.gouv.fr/direction-generale-laviation-civile-dgac
• Passenger Rights (French Administration Portal): https://www.service-public.gouv.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/N84
• Rules for Traveling with Pets (Ministry of Agriculture): https://agriculture.gouv.fr/comment-voyager-avec-son-animal-de-compagnie
• EASA Safety and Passenger Information (EU Governing Body): https://www.easa.europa.eu/en/the-agency/faqs/passengers