Sure! Here’s the translation into American English:
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Thousands of families choose to travel by plane during peak season, but many are unaware of their rights as passengers. With the arrival of vacation time, uncertainty related to delays, cancellations, and other setbacks can be overwhelming. Therefore, it is essential to inform about the rights of the most vulnerable passengers: families with children.
One of the most notable regulations pertains to seat assignments. According to European legislation, children under 12 have the right to sit next to an accompanying adult at no additional cost “when possible.” This means airlines cannot charge for this right or separate a child from their companion unless a fee has been paid for seat selection. However, the enforcement of this rule can vary among airlines, so passengers should be prepared to assert their rights.
Families traveling with babies enjoy additional benefits. They have the option to bring a stroller and a car seat without extra charges, and they can carry milk or baby food in the cabin, even in amounts exceeding 100 ml. Additionally, airlines often provide priority boarding and assistance at airports, reminding that each minor needs their own passport or ID. If only one parent is traveling with the child, it is advisable to carry a signed consent letter.
The rights of passengers do not stop there. If a flight is delayed for more than two hours, airlines are required to provide food, drinks, and access to communication. If the delay exceeds three hours or the flight is canceled, compensation can reach up to €600 per passenger, except in extraordinary circumstances. If accommodation or rebooking is necessary, the airline must ensure both, especially when minors are involved.
Additionally, if luggage is lost or delayed, families can claim reimbursements for basic necessities like clothing or baby products. The Montreal Convention states that compensation can be up to €1,300, provided that claims are made within the established time limits: seven days for damages and 21 days for delays.
Eric Napoli, legal manager at AirHelp, emphasizes that “many parents do not know that they have the right to sit next to their children without paying more, or that they can claim if their flight is delayed. We want them to know their rights and be able to exercise them to have the best experience when traveling as a family.” With this information, it is hoped that families will feel more empowered and prepared to face their travels this summer.
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Feel free to ask if you need any further assistance!
Source: MiMub in Spanish