European Commission takes step to update air service rules

 

The European Commission is inviting citizens, travellers and stakeholders to express their views via a public consultation on the revision of the Air Services Regulation – the framework governing access to the EU internal market for aviation, and operations within it. The Regulation determines, for example, when and where EU airlines can operate freely within the EU, and how ticket prices should be displayed to consumers.

Reviewing the Regulation will prepare the air services sector for the future, ensuring it remains competitive, maintains connectivity, and protects consumer interests. The review covers hand luggage allowances, and ways to reduce disruptions across the EU during air traffic controller strikes.

First introduced in 1992 and updated in 2008, the Air Services Regulation has played a pivotal role in the development of the EU's internal aviation market. It has driven sector growth and improved connectivity across the EU, benefiting citizens in all regions, including remote and outermost areas. An evaluation carried out in 2019, the experience of the COVID pandemic and more recent assessments have identified a need for more support – for the sector's green transition, and to improve its resilience to crises.

The consultation is open until 4 November 2025 (midnight Brussels time) and is available on the Have Your Say portal. Feedback will feed into the Impact Assessment on the revision of the Air Services Regulation, which the Commission is currently undertaking.

Tags: European Commission