Reino Unido

The United Kingdom boasts one of the world's busiest and most competitive aviation sectors, served by global hubs such as London Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stansted. In 2026, the market operates under a consolidated regulatory framework following its departure from the European Union, maintaining safety and consumer protection standards aligned with international best practices. The primary regulatory body is the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), responsible for overseeing aviation safety, airport infrastructure, and the enforcement of consumer protection laws. The sector is governed by the *Civil Aviation Act 1982* and subsequent updates, which ensure compliance with ICAO standards.

The UK applies UK261, the British counterpart to the former EU regulation. These rights apply to flights departing from a UK airport (on any airline) or arriving in the UK from abroad on a UK-based airline.

• Delays: If a flight arrives more than 3 hours late, passengers are entitled to compensation, unless the delay is caused by "extraordinary circumstances" (e.g., severe weather, air traffic control strikes).
• Compensation: Varies from £220 to £600, depending on flight distance and the length of the delay.
• Right to Care: In the event of long delays, airlines are required to provide vouchers for meals, refreshments, telecommunications, and, if necessary, hotel accommodation and transport.
• Cancellations: Passengers are entitled to a full refund or re-routing. If notification of the cancellation is provided less than 14 days in advance, financial compensation may be claimed.

There is no federal UK law mandating that airlines provide free checked baggage. Baggage policies (dimensions and weight) are determined commercially by each airline.

• Carry-on baggage: Generally permitted, though size and weight restrictions vary significantly between low-cost and full-service carriers.
• Consumer Rights: Legislation ensures that passengers are clearly informed of baggage fees at the time of booking (price transparency principle). Damaged or lost baggage is governed by the Montreal Convention, which limits the carrier's financial liability.

The United Kingdom maintains strict biosecurity regulations (the UK is rabies-free). Pets (dogs, cats, and ferrets) must enter via an approved route.

• Requirements: A microchip, a rabies vaccination (administered after the microchip), and an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued within 10 days of arrival.
• Tests: For dogs, a tapeworm treatment (*Echinococcus multilocularis*) must be administered by a veterinarian between 24 and 120 hours before entry into the country.
• Restrictions: Pets are generally not permitted in the cabin on commercial passenger flights; they must arrive as manifested cargo.

• Unaccompanied Minors: Airlines have their own specific policies (generally allowing travel from 14–16 years of age). Children under 14 cannot travel alone on most flights.
• Travel Authorization: While there is no mandatory government form, the UK Border Force may question adults traveling with children who do not share the same surname. It is recommended to carry a signed letter of authorization from parents/legal guardians, including copies of their identification documents and, preferably, the child’s birth certificate.

The UK is a benchmark for accessibility under the *Equality Act 2010*.

• Airport Assistance: Passengers with reduced mobility are entitled to free assistance at all UK airports. Requests must be made at least 48 hours in advance to the airline or tour operator.
• Equipment: The carriage of medical equipment and up to two mobility items (wheelchairs, crutches) must be provided free of charge, in addition to the standard baggage allowance.

In 2026, the entry system for the UK has evolved:

• ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation): This is now mandatory for all travelers who do not require a visa for short-term tourism, including citizens who were previously exempt. The application must be completed online prior to travel.
• Passport: Must be valid for the entire duration of the stay.
• Tourist Visas: Citizens from countries that require a Standard Visitor Visa must apply in advance via the official GOV.UK portal. A tourist visa allows for a stay of up to 6 months.

• Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) - Passenger Rights: https://www.caa.co.uk/passengers/
• GOV.UK - Entry Rules and ETA: https://www.gov.uk/uk-border-control
• GOV.UK - Traveling with Pets: https://www.gov.uk/bring-pet-to-great-britain
• GOV.UK - Assistance for disabled passengers: https://www.gov.uk/transport-disabled
• UK Border Force - Guidance for minors: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/children-travelling-to-the-uk