How the EU is Making Airlines Pay More in 2026
European regulators are tightening enforcement of EU261 and considering updates to strengthen passenger rights further. Here is what is happening in 2026 and what it means for your claims.
Stricter Enforcement
European National Enforcement Bodies (NEBs) are increasing their enforcement activities. Airlines that systematically reject valid EU261 claims are facing larger fines and more frequent investigations. The European Commission has pushed member states to strengthen their NEB capabilities.
Airlines that routinely deny valid claims are on notice. The increased enforcement means airlines are more likely to pay valid claims on first submission. For how airlines try to avoid paying, see our avoidance tactics guide.
Proposed EU261 Updates
The European Commission has been considering updates to EU261 for several years. Proposed changes include clarifying the definition of extraordinary circumstances, standardizing response deadlines across all airlines, and strengthening NEB enforcement powers.
While major legislative changes take time, the trend is clearly toward stronger passenger protections. For current EU261 rights, see our EU261 guide. For UK261 vs EU261, see our comparison. For EU261 rights, see our rights page.
What This Means for Your Claims
Stricter enforcement is good news for passengers. Claims filed now are more likely to be honored than claims filed a few years ago. If you have old flights within the limitation period that you never claimed for, now is a good time to file. Check your flights for eligibility. For the step-by-step process, see our guide.