EASA

For the year 2026, EASA has implemented significant regulatory milestones:

• Artificial Intelligence and Automation: Implementation of stringent guidelines for the integration of AI-based pilot assistance systems, focusing on cybersecurity resilience against navigation system attacks.
• Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF): Entry into force of the mandatory minimum blending of SAF at European airports, as per the *ReFuelEU Aviation* plan, aiming for total decarbonization by 2050.
• Drone Safety 2.0: Update to Regulation (EU) 2019/947, standardizing drone operations in urban areas with mandatory remote identification systems.
• New Fatigue Standards: Revision of flight crew duty and rest periods, based on recent biomechanical studies, to reduce the risk of human error on long-haul flights.

In 2026, EASA, in conjunction with the European Parliament, consolidated the Fare Transparency standard:

• Carry-on Baggage: Standardization of carry-on baggage dimensions (55x40x20 cm) for all airlines operating in the EU, aiming to eliminate hidden costs and fare confusion.
• Hidden Fees: Airlines are prohibited from listing a flight price without including mandatory taxes, charges, and fuel surcharges from the very first step of the booking process (Transparent Total Price).
• Checked Baggage: The agency does not stipulate a mandatory free weight allowance but requires any additional charges to be clearly itemized during the checkout process. The automatic charging for extra services (like baggage check-in) without explicit user consent (opt-in) is prohibited.

EASA's rules for 2026 follow the European regulation for the movement of companion animals:

• Documentation: The "European Pet Passport" is mandatory. For visitors, an official veterinary health certificate signed by a certified veterinarian in the country of origin is required.
• Safety: EASA requires pets to be transported in appropriate, escape-proof, and well-ventilated travel crates. Cabin transport is permitted for small animals (generally with a weight limit of up to 8kg, including the carrier), subject to the specific airline's policy.
• Restrictions: The transport of brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds is highly discouraged by EASA due to the risk of respiratory distress at altitude, with many airlines prohibiting their transport in the cargo hold.

In 2026, family protection has been strengthened:

• Adjacent Seating: Legislation mandates that airlines must make reasonable efforts to seat children under 12 years of age next to a parent or legal guardian at no additional cost.
• Equipment Allowance: Free transport is guaranteed for one collapsible stroller and one child restraint system (if required for the child) as courtesy items, in addition to the child's baggage allowance.
• Assistance: Airlines are obligated to provide potable water and facilitate access to lavatories equipped with changing facilities on medium and long-haul flights.

Based on Regulation (EC) No 1107/2006, the rights of Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRM) in 2026 include:

• Airport Assistance: The airport operator bears the ultimate responsibility for ensuring assistance from the moment a passenger arrives at the terminal until boarding/disembarkation.
• Notification: Assistance requests must be made at least 48 hours in advance of the scheduled departure time.
• Mobility Equipment: Airlines are required to transport, free of charge, up to two items of mobility equipment (e.g., manual/electric wheelchairs and crutches).
• MEDIF Form: The medical information form is only required if the passenger's health condition necessitates special medical care during the flight (such as supplemental oxygen or a stretcher). EASA promotes the use of a standard *Medical Clearance Form* to avoid excessive bureaucracy.

• EASA - Passenger Rights
• European Commission - Air Passenger Rights (EU Rules)
• EASA - Regulations & Rules (Updated Legal Basis)
• European Union - Travelling with pets (Health Rules)
• EASA - Safety Promotion for Passengers