No Extra Cost for Parents to Sit With Kids, Says EU

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Brussels: The European Union has agreed to broad new air-passenger rights rules that would prevent airlines from charging parents extra to sit near to their children on flights. Under the proposed rules, children under the age of 14 must be seated with an accompanying adult at no additional expense, putting an end to a practice that has long been criticised by consumer groups.

The changes are part of a larger revision of passenger protections throughout the EU. In addition to complimentary family seats, airlines will be expected to disclose more transparent ticket pricing, allowing travellers to better understand the total cost of a trip before purchasing. Carriers would also be prohibited from charging fees for minor spelling fixes on tickets.

The restrictions, according to EU parliamentarians, are intended to ensure that passengers are treated fairly and strengthening consumer rights. Despite some airlines' concerns about the associated expenses, the agreement also upholds compensation rights for passengers impacted by major aircraft delays and cancellations.

Officials say the new regulations represent a significant step toward enhancing the travel experience for families and other passengers throughout the bloc, but they still need final approval from EU institutions before they become legal.