Airlines on the ropes as EU body rules against charging for hand luggage

EU rules on hand luggage charges puts airlines under pressure

Louise Brown June 26, 2025 Travel Leave a comment

AIR travel as we know it could soon look very different after a European Union body proposed changes to carry-on luggage rules that would save passengers millions every year from so-called ‘drip pricing’.

Members of the EU parliament’s transport and tourism panel voted to support a proposed amendment. If approved, it would allow all passengers a 7kg carry on bag up to 100cm in size to be carried aboard. This bag can then be stored free of charge in overhead lockers.

This would be in addition to a smaller ‘personal item’ that fits under the seat in front.

If the law is passed, it could have an impact on low-cost airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet that charge extra for luggage that does not fit under a passenger seat.

A lobbying organization, the European Consumer Organisation (ECO), was behind the proposed changes. The group claims that these will simplify bookings and protect consumers from unnecessary costs.

READ MORE: Ryanair being taken to court AGAIN in Spain in ‘test case’ over hand luggage charges

If passed, this law would have an impact on budget carriers, such as Ryanair, who currently charge extra to carry hand luggage. Credit: CordonPress

Airlines for Europe (a trade group representing major carriers) has warned against any new rules. They claim that any change would result in higher fares for passengers.

They also said the EU should ‘let travellers decide what services they want, what services they pay for and, importantly, what services they don’t’.

Other people say that carrying on luggage is free, but it can lead to overcrowding.

The proposals are far from being finished, despite the fact that the Spanish government is behind them.

The amendment will not become law unless at least 55% EU member states support it. This is unlikely to happen as the airline industry will likely push back against the change.

If the rule is passed, it will not only affect domestic flights in the EU but also all international flights between member states and non-EU nations, like the UK.

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