França

France remains one of the world's leading aviation hubs, operated primarily by the ADP Group (*Aéroports de Paris*), which manages Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and Paris-Orly Airport (ORY). The sector is heavily regulated by the DGAC (Direction Générale de l'Aviation Civile), under the authority of the Ministry of Ecological Transition and Territorial Cohesion. France strictly adheres to the guidelines set by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). In 2026, the French market is focused on transitioning to low-carbon short-haul flights, encouraging intermodality with the high-speed rail network (TGV).

Passenger rights in France are governed by Regulation (EC) No. 261/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council, which remains in force and fully applicable in 2026.

• Delays: If your flight is delayed by 2 hours or more (depending on distance), you are entitled to assistance (meals and two phone calls/emails). For delays of more than 3 hours at arrival, financial compensation applies.
• Cancellations: Entitlement to a refund or re-routing, in addition to compensation, unless notified at least 14 days in advance or in cases of "extraordinary circumstances."
• Compensation (2026 Rates):
• Flights up to 1,500 km: €250.
• Intra-community flights over 1,500 km and other flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km: €400.
• Flights over 3,500 km: €600.
• Complaint body: The *Direction Générale de l'Aviation Civile* (DGAC) acts as the national enforcement body.

There is no federal law mandating that airlines provide free carry-on baggage; however, European legislation requires that essential items for passengers with reduced mobility be transported at no extra cost. In 2026, carry-on baggage policies (size and weight) are determined commercially by the carriers. It is recommended to check the "cabin baggage" policy before booking, as the Court of Justice of the EU has reinforced in recent case law that reasonable carry-on luggage should be included in the ticket price, although practical implementation varies according to the airline's business model.

For the entry of animals (dogs, cats, ferrets) into France, EU regulations are strict:

• Identification: Microchip (ISO 11784 or 11785 standard).
• Vaccination: Valid rabies vaccination (administered after microchipping).
• Health Certificate: Official document issued by an authorized veterinarian in the country of origin (or a European Pet Passport).
• Antibody Test: Mandatory for animals arriving from high-risk third countries, carried out 3 months prior to travel.

• Documentation: Minors (French citizens or foreign residents) traveling unaccompanied or with only one parent may require an AST (Autorisation de Sortie du Territoire).
• Unaccompanied Minors (UM): Airlines offer an "Unaccompanied Minor" service, generally mandatory for children between the ages of 5 and 12. The service must be booked in advance and requires full identification of the adults responsible at both departure and arrival.

France enforces Regulation (EC) No. 1107/2006, which guarantees the right to free assistance for persons with reduced mobility (PRM) at airports and on aircraft.

• Request: Must be made at least 48 hours in advance to the airline or tour operator.
• Infrastructure: French airports are required to provide accessible routes, waiting areas, and assistance from the designated meeting point to the aircraft seat.

In 2026, France operates fully under the new Schengen Area guidelines:

• Passport: Must be valid for at least 3 months after the intended date of departure from the Schengen Area and must have been issued within the last 10 years.
• ETIAS: The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is mandatory for visitors from visa-exempt countries (e.g., Brazil, USA). The authorization must be requested online prior to travel and costs €7.
• Visas: Citizens of countries requiring a visa (short-stay Schengen visa) must apply at the consulate or an authorized visa center (typically VFS Global) at least 15 days in advance.

• DGAC (Passenger Rights and Regulation): https://www.ecologie.gouv.fr/droits-des-passagers-aeriens
• Official ETIAS Portal (EU): https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias_en
• French Public Service (Traveling with Pets): https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F21374
• Immigration Information (Ministry of the Interior): https://www.interieur.gouv.fr/
• Authorization for Minors to Leave the Territory (AST): https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F1359